3 dead after exposure to unknown substance in New Mexico

Alsharq Tribune-AFP 

Three people died, and 18 first responders were being treated after exposure to an unidentified substance during a suspected drug overdose at a home in New Mexico, local media reported Wednesday.

Of the four individuals found unresponsive inside the home in Mountainair, a rural community east of Albuquerque, three were pronounced dead. The 18 responders called to the scene developed symptoms, including nausea and dizziness, and were transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital.

Two of the responders were in serious condition, according to Officer Wilson Silver of the New Mexico State Police.

Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto said in a social media post that all indications were pointing toward narcotics as a possible factor. "The reality is that addiction and substance abuse are issues affecting communities all across our state and nation," he said.

The investigation is ongoing.