By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• Law enforcement recovered fentanyl and methamphetamine at a New Mexico residence where 18 first responders became ill during a May 30 call, officials said.
• The incident began when officers and fire personnel responded to a welfare check at the home in Ojo Amarillo, and several responders reported symptoms consistent with chemical exposure.
• Authorities transported some affected responders to hospitals as a precaution; most were later released.
• The Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office and special agents are investigating the incident and lab results detailing the substances found at the scene.
OJO AMARILLO, NM — Fentanyl and methamphetamine were discovered at a residence in Ojo Amarillo, New Mexico, where 18 first responders reported illness while responding to a welfare check on May 30, authorities said.
The Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office, along with local fire units and emergency medical technicians, initially responded to the home after receiving a welfare call; during the response, multiple personnel began experiencing symptoms including nausea and dizziness.
Responders were evaluated on scene by medical teams, and several were transported to nearby hospitals for further assessment. Most were later released after treatment and observation, officials said.
A subsequent search of the property by sheriff’s deputies and special agents uncovered fentanyl, methamphetamine and associated drug paraphernalia, according to law enforcement.
The Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office and state investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the call and the chemicals found, and no arrests have been announced as the investigation remains active.
