Story perspectives

Three Die, 18 Responders Hospitalized After Toxic Skin Exposure

5/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Eighteen emergency responders were hospitalized after skin contact with an unknown substance during a drug-overdose call at 306 Hanlon Avenue, Mountainair.
State police and Hazmat officials said the substance spreads through skin, is not airborne, and that three occupants died while a fourth was hospitalized.
Mayor Peter Nieto urged residents to avoid rumors and reported two exposed responders remain in serious condition at the University of New Mexico Hospital.

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Story summary

Eighteen emergency responders were hospitalized after skin contact with an unknown substance during a drug-overdose call at 306 Hanlon Avenue, Mountainair.
State police and Hazmat officials said the substance spreads through skin, is not airborne, and that three occupants died while a fourth was hospitalized.
Mayor Peter Nieto urged residents to avoid rumors and reported two exposed responders remain in serious condition at the University of New Mexico Hospital.