3 Dead, 18 First Responders Hospitalized After Exposure to Substance in NM

Three people are dead and nearly 20 first responders were hospitalized in New Mexico after exposure to an unidentified substance at a home east of Albuquerque, authorities said Wednesday.

State police said four people were initially found unresponsive, with one surviving and receiving treatment. During the emergency response in Mountainair, 18 first responders reported symptoms including nausea and dizziness after contact with the substance and were transported to a hospital, where they were quarantined for monitoring.

Two were listed in serious condition. Officials said hazmat teams are working to identify the substance and believe it is not airborne, adding there is no broader threat to the public.

Mountainair mayor Peter Nieto posted on Facebook, in part, “At this time, we do not know the exact cause. However, based on the information currently available, all indications are pointing toward narcotics as a possible factor. The investigation is still ongoing, and officials are working carefully to confirm the facts before releasing final conclusions.”

This is a breaking news article. Updates to follow.

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 2:42 PM.