3 Dead After Unidentified Substance Exposure in New Mexico

Three people are dead and 18 first responders were hospitalized after being exposed to an unidentified substance at a rural home in New Mexico on Wednesday. The incident occurred in Mountainair, a community east of Albuquerque, after authorities responded to a report of a suspected drug overdose.

According to New Mexico State Police, four people were found unresponsive inside the home. Three of them died, and the fourth was transported to a hospital in Albuquerque for treatment. During the emergency response, 18 first responders were exposed to the substance and began experiencing symptoms including nausea and dizziness.

All of the exposed personnel were taken to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where they were quarantined and are being monitored. Officer Wilson Silver with the New Mexico State Police said two of the first responders were listed in serious condition.

Hazardous materials teams from Albuquerque Fire Rescue were assisting at the scene to identify the substance. Investigators currently believe the substance may be transmitted through contact and is not believed to be airborne, according to Silver.

Authorities have established a secure perimeter around the home....