Unknown substance kills 3, injures first responders in New Mexico

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FILE: A state police car parked along a street in New Mexico. (Photo by Robert Alexander/Getty Images)

First responders in New Mexico were injured from exposure to an unknown substance Wednesday after finding three people dead inside a home. 

According to New Mexico State Police, it happened in a home east of Albuquerque. 

Suspected overdose injures first responders

What we know:

Responders were called Wednesday to a suspected overdose at a home in Mountaineer, where four people were found unresponsive inside, police said. Three of the four people died; the fourth was taken to a hospital in Albuquerque. 

Eighteen first responders were exposed to a substance at the scene and began experiencing symptoms including nausea and dizziness. All of the first responders were taken to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where they were being monitored. Two of the first responders were listed in serious condition. 

What we don't know:

Authorities haven’t confirmed what the substance is, but they said "investigators believe the substance may be transmitted through contact and do not believe it to be airborne."

What they're saying:

"The reality is that addiction and substance abuse are issues affecting communities all across our state and nation," Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto said. "There is no simple or immediate solution. Lasting change requires family support, accountability, education, and most importantly, individuals who are willing to accept help."