Sponsored content disclaimer: The information and advice displayed in this story are those of individual sponsors and guests and not Nexstar Media Group, inc.
New Mexico
Hiker found dead on Albuquerque’s La Luz Trail sparks safety warnings
Hikers heading into the Sandia Mountains are being reminded to never underestimate Albuquerque’s trail system after a man was found dead earlier this week along the popular La Luz Trail.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Hikers heading into the Sandia Mountains are being reminded to never underestimate Albuquerque’s trail system after a man was found dead earlier this week along the popular La Luz Trail.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man as Samuel Gurule. Authorities say there are no signs of foul play and no obvious trauma, though the investigation into his death is ongoing.
While details remain limited, officials say the tragedy is serving as an important reminder for hikers to prepare carefully before heading into the mountains.
“Respect the mountains, respect the outdoors,” said Steve LaRese with the New Mexico Search and Rescue Council. “We want to see everybody outside. Everyone deserves to be outside.”
With hiking season in full swing, trails throughout the Sandias are drawing more visitors. While the Sandia Crest remains closed, lower‑elevation routes like La Luz are open — and can appear deceptively manageable.
“It looks very obtainable and very two‑dimensional,” LaRese said. “But when you get in there, it’s a lot of rolling terrain.”
Between steep terrain, heat, elevation, and winding paths, conditions can change quickly — and it’s easy to get turned around.
“Little things turn into big things,” LaRese explained. “It’s very easy to get off the main trail and end up in a steep area or somewhere you don’t want to be.”
Search and Rescue officials say that’s why preparation is critical, even on shorter hikes.
The New Mexico Search and Rescue Council encourages hikers to over‑prepare, even if they don’t expect trouble. Recommended items include:
- A light source, even for daytime hikes
- A whistle, which can help rescuers locate you
- Plenty of water and protection from the sun
If something does go wrong, officials stress that hikers should not hesitate to call for help.
“Search and Rescue in New Mexico is free,” LaRese said. “You won’t be charged for calling 911 or for a rescue team coming out to get you off the mountain.”
As temperatures continue to rise across New Mexico, hikers are urged to listen to their bodies and avoid pushing past their limits.
“Check your heart rate. Be realistic about your physical abilities,” LaRese said. “There’s nothing wrong with hiking two miles up and saying, ‘That’s a good day,’ and heading back. The mountain will always be there.”
One final reminder for hikers planning a summit route: never assume the Sandia Tram will be operating for a ride back down.
Weather conditions or maintenance closures can leave hikers stranded — sometimes facing a long descent after dark.
Officials say preparation, awareness, and knowing when to turn around can make the difference between a great hike and a dangerous situation.
5 dogs quarantined after Mountainair exposure, officals to release new info Friday
MOUNTAINAIR, N.M. – Investigators say they could have answers within the next 24 hours about a mysterious substance that killed three people inside a Mountainair home and sickened more than two dozen others.
Officials are expected to provide an update Friday on what exactly caused the deadly incident, which has raised serious questions about exposure risks for both humans and animals.
Growing Impact: From victims to first responders
The incident began Wednesday when four people were found unresponsive at a home after coming into contact with an unknown substance. Two were declared dead on scene, and the other two were given Narcan, resuscitated and taken to UNM Hospital. One of them died after arriving at the ER. Initially reported as an overdose call, the situation quickly escalated.
More than 25 people — including at least 18 first responders — were exposed and required quarantine at UNM Hospital. Most have since been released, but two individuals remain under observation as of Wednesday night.
Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto said the town’s EMS chief, Josh Lewis, may have been among the most heavily exposed.
“He’s one of the first that went into the residence,” Nieto said. “That’s what we’re thinking — he was the one that got the most of it.”
Lewis was released from UNM Hospital Thursday afternoon and is reported to be doing well according to the Town of Mountainair Facebook page.
Animal quarantine underway
The effects of the mysterious substance have extended beyond humans.
Four dogs that were inside the home are now in quarantine at Mountainair Animal Control, while crews continue searching for a fifth dog.
Staff members are taking significant precautions while caring for the animals.
“We’re wearing all of our PPE just to touch them,” said Jennifer Carter with Mountainair Animal Control. “Right now there are no symptoms. We’re just going to keep an eye on them for the next 10 days.”
So far, all the dogs appear healthy and symptom-free, but officials say they will continue monitoring them closely. If cleared by a veterinarian, the dogs may eventually be put up for adoption unless claimed by family members.
Hospital and community response
At UNM Hospital, dozens of potentially exposed individuals were quarantined as a precaution. While most have now been released, officials say the response is ongoing, with continued monitoring for anyone who may have come into contact with the substance.
The incident has caused fear and uncertainty among those affected — including the quarantined animals.
“They’re grieving, they’re very scared,” Carter said. “They don’t know who I am or the volunteers, so they’re nervous and apprehensive. But we’ll win them over.”
Investigation expands with federal involvement
The case is now being led by New Mexico State Police, with assistance from multiple agencies including Albuquerque Fire Rescue.
FBI agents were seen at the home Wednesday, and officials confirmed that DEA agents conducted air quality testing in and around the property. Authorities have reassured nearby residents that the air is safe.
Key questions remain
With a news conference scheduled for Friday, investigators are expected to provide more clarity. Major questions still remain, including:
- What was the substance that caused the deaths?
- How were 18 first responders exposed?
- Were proper safety protocols followed at the scene?
- What is the current condition of the two remaining patients at UNM Hospital?
Hospital officials are also expected to address their quarantine procedures and safety protocols during the briefing.
The Greater New Mexico AMBUCS works to promote mobility and independence. They do this by giving away Amtrykes to individuals with mobility deficits. Amtrykes are adaptive trikes that can be modified and customized to meet the specific needs of these individuals.
The New Mexico chapter started in 2025 and works to cover the whole state.
They have an upcoming event called Spikes for Trykes. The event is June 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 4511 Paseo Del Norte NE Albuquerque, NM 87113.
To learn more, visit www.gnmambucs.org.
Adrian HeddenEl Rito Mediaachedden@elritomedia.com Duke Rodriguez planned to tap into his experience as a state cabinet secretary and healthcare executive should he be elected governor of New Mexico. Rodriguez, 68, is chief executive officer of cannabis company Ultra Health, New Mexico’s largest, which he founded in 2012. He was named chief operating officer of Lovelace […]
-
Georgia5 minutes agoWhere to watch Tennessee-Georgia softball Game 2: TV, channel, stream
-
Hawaii11 minutes agoLong-term care advocates says Hawaii lawmakers need to do more – The Garden Island
-
Illinois23 minutes agoBehind The Lines: DBR Discusses Illinois’ November Visit To Cameron
-
Indiana29 minutes agoRanking the Indiana Pacers Best Trade Assets Heading Into the Offseason
-
Iowa35 minutes agoEmily Ryan promoted to assistant coach
-
Kansas41 minutes agoRain chances into the holiday weekend
-
Kentucky47 minutes agoChase Lumpkin planning visit to Kentucky Basketball
-
Louisiana53 minutes agoLouisiana’s Tough-on-Crime Policies Stand to Cost Taxpayers Millions More for Years to Come
