Police said two employees became ill after entering a restroom where an unknown person had reportedly been smoking or had recently smoked an unknown substance.

Organ Mountain News report

DEMING - A Deming Popeyes restaurant was deemed safe early Sunday after two employees were hospitalized following a suspicious restroom incident, police said.

Deming police said officers and emergency personnel responded to the restaurant about 9:30 p.m. Saturday after a report of a suspicious person in the restroom.

Two employees later entered the restroom and saw indications that the person had been smoking, or had recently smoked, an unknown substance, according to a news release from Deming Police Chief Sergio Lara.

Police said both employees began feeling ill shortly afterward and needed medical attention. They were taken to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.

The unidentified person left before first responders arrived.

Based on the employees’ symptoms, police said initial concern centered on possible exposure to fentanyl or another hazardous substance.

Sgt. Madrid secured the restaurant and requested assistance from the New Mexico State Police HazMat team and the Luna County Emergency Management Unit.

The scene remained under precautionary control until about 3 a.m. Sunday, when it was released and deemed safe, according to police.

Police said the incident is believed to be isolated, but encouraged local businesses to remain vigilant when people enter restrooms without seeking services and remain inside for extended periods.

The investigation remains ongoing. No further information was available.