Three people have died and 18 first responders were hospitalised after a suspected hazmat situation in Mountainair, New Mexico, on Wednesday. Authorities responded to a report of a suspected overdose at a home around 11:00 a.m. local time, finding four unresponsive individuals inside. Three have since been confirmed dead.
The first responders were exposed to an unidentified substance and experienced symptoms including nausea and dizziness. Two were in serious condition, while several have since been released from hospital. The one surviving person inside the home was also taken to hospital. Narcan was administered to at least one person at the scene.
Torrance County Sheriff David Frazee suggested the first responders may have inhaled toxins from the scene. Mayor Peter Nieto stated that all indications point towards narcotics as a possible factor. He confirmed that three of four EMTs from Mountainair EMS have been released, but the EMS chief remains in hospital for observation.
Albuquerque Fire Rescue Hazmat teams are working to identify the substance, which investigators believe may spread through contact rather than airborne means. Authorities have secured a perimeter around the home and stated there is no threat to the public.
