VIDEO: New Mexico State Police said 22 people were taken to the hospital after possible exposure to an “unidentified substance” at a home in Mountainair.
Four people were found unresponsive inside a residence on Wednesday; three of them are dead from a suspected overdose. While responding, 18 first responders began experiencing symptoms and, along with the surviving person in the residence, were taken to the University of New Mexico Hospital for treatment.
According to Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto, three of the four EMTs from Mountainair EMS have been released from the hospital. EMS Chief Josh Lewis will stay overnight for observation.
NMSP said 25 people were exposed. Three died, 18 have been discharged from the hospital, one is in the process of being discharged, and three have been admitted for further treatment.
Mayor Nieto said that carbon monoxide and natural gas has been ruled out as causes. Albuquerque Fire Rescue Hazmat teams are working to identify the substance.
Investigators believe it may be passed through contact and not through the air. NMSP said that there is no threat to the public. People were asked to avoid the area. Officials are still working to identify the substance.
KRQE-TV CBS/FOX 13 Albuquerque
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