On Friday, officials announced the identification of a substance that led to the hospitalization of over a dozen paramedics who responded to a New Mexico home where three individuals were believed to have overdosed.
First responders encountered fentanyl when they arrived at a residence in Mountain Aire, New Mexico, where four individuals were found unresponsive, according to reports.
Two of the victims were declared dead on the scene, while the third passed away later at the University of New Mexico Hospital. One individual survived.
“Initial findings suggest this incident is tied to exposure to powdered opioid substances in the residence, with DEA lab tests confirming the presence of parafluorofentanyl, commonly referred to as fentanyl, along with methamphetamine and P4 fentanyl,” New Mexico State Police Chief Matt Bloom stated during a press conference.
“This represents a more illegal variation of fentanyl,” he explained.
The substance was discovered in its powdered form, authorities confirmed.
In total, 25 individuals were exposed to the substance, and 20 were hospitalized for treatment but later released.
Authorities noted that two of the hospitalized continued to be in critical condition.
The deceased were identified as Mika Rascon, aged 51, and Georgia Rascon, aged 49.
Both the survivor and one of the deceased received Narcan, a medication used to counteract opioid overdoses.
Many first responders began to report symptoms such as nausea and dizziness, prompting concern among officials.
“These individuals responded bravely to a perilous situation while trying to save lives and secure the scene,” Bloom emphasized. “We particularly acknowledge the first responders who fell ill during their duties.”
Torrance County Fire Chief Gary Smith noted that firefighters did not enter the home equipped with hazmat gear initially, as the situation didn’t seem to warrant it at first glance.
He mentioned that authorities will reevaluate their response protocols moving forward.
“So, we’re about as good as we were last time, right?” Smith remarked. “Multiple debriefings will take place over the next week or two to evaluate our strengths and weaknesses.”
This matter is currently under investigation.
