2 Montgomery Co. workers get sick after handling fentanyl-laced flyer outside library: Authorities

NEW CANEY, Texas (KTRK) -- Two Montgomery County employees became sick Tuesday afternoon after handling a flyer that authorities say later tested positive for fentanyl.

According to the Montgomery County Precinct 4 Constable's Office, the incident happened around 2:25 p.m. outside the R.B. Tullis Branch Library in New Caney. Deputies said a woman approached two county maintenance workers in the parking lot and handed them a damp flyer with a pink tint and what appeared to be a religious message.

Within about 30 minutes, both employees began experiencing symptoms including shaky hands, dizziness, and hot flashes. They took the flyer to the constable's office, where officials say it tested positive for fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that can be deadly even in small amounts.

Retired Houston police officer Mark Stephens said the case is a reminder of how dangerous accidental exposure can be.

"You can't just trust anyone anymore, especially when it comes to fentanyl," Stephens said. "It's a deadly drug that can get into your system just by touch. I've seen officers go unconscious because the wind blew and they inhaled the powder. It's a deadly, deadly drug."

Stephens added that cases like this are why first responders now routinely carry Narcan, an opioid overdose reversal medication.

The constable's office said they don't want to cause panic but are urging the public to be cautious when accepting items from strangers. With Halloween approaching, Stephens advises parents to inspect candy and packaging carefully.

Investigators say they have obtained surveillance video from the library's parking lot that has given them a promising lead in the case.

For more on this story, follow Jessica Willey on Facebook, X and Instagram.