Fentanyl Horror in Mountainair Highlights Growing Crisis Hitting Close to Home in Southern New Mexico

In a heartbreaking and dangerous incident that serves as a stark warning for communities across our state, including right here in Otero County, preliminary findings point to powdered fentanyl and related opioids as the cause of three deaths and the exposure of more than two dozen people – including first responders – in the small town of Mountainair this week.

According to officials, 51-year-old Mika Rascon and 49-year-old Georgia Rascon were found dead Wednesday morning at a home in the 300 block of North Hanlon Avenue, about 90 miles southeast of Albuquerque. A third person later died at the University of New Mexico Hospital. In total, 25 individuals, including 18 first responders, were exposed to a mix of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and para-fluorofentanyl (P4 fentanyl). Many reported symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

As of Friday, most exposed EMS staff were home and stable, though a fourth person from the home and one first responder remained hospitalized. Officials emphasized that even tiny amounts of fentanyl can be lethal, underscoring its extreme danger. No manufacturing operation was apparent at the scene, and no charges have been filed yet as the investigation continues with federal and local authorities.

The response began as a welfare check after someone failed to show up for work. First responders entered without full hazmat gear initially, as there were no immediate signs of chemical danger. Gas leaks were quickly ruled out. Albuquerque Fire Rescue later assisted with decontamination.

This tragedy hits especially hard for Alamogordo and surrounding areas, where the fentanyl epidemic shows no signs of slowing. Just months ago, the Alamogordo Police Department and the White Mountain Drug Task Force made key arrests in local trafficking cases. In one March 2025 bust, agents seized 491 fentanyl pills, guns, and cash during a traffic stop in the North Florida and Fairgrounds area. Another operation disrupted a ring supplying fentanyl from Arizona into Otero and Lincoln Counties, leading to multiple convictions.

Despite these successes, the problem continues to grow across New Mexico. Large-scale seizures – including record-breaking multi-million pill busts involving New Mexico in 2025 – have made headlines, yet powdered fentanyl and deadly mixes keep appearing in communities large and small. New Mexico continues to rank among the highest in the nation for overdose deaths, with fentanyl driving much of the toll.

Local officials and first responders urge caution: Fentanyl’s potency means accidental exposure through skin contact or residue poses real risks. This Mountainair incident shows how quickly a routine call can turn hazardous.

At AlamogordoTownNews.org  & KALHRadio.org we continue to track this crisis because it affects our families, our neighbors, and our first responders here in the Tularosa Basin. We stand with law enforcement working tirelessly on these cases and urge anyone struggling with substance use to seek help immediately. Community vigilance, support for treatment programs, and strong enforcement are essential if we are to turn the tide.

This issue is not going away. Stay informed, stay safe, and watch for updates on our local news platforms of 2nd Life Media brands. 

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