NORTHRIDGE, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A hazmat team was called to the scene after two bodies were found along with white powder in what was described as a man-made cave in Northridge.
The scene was found around 10:30 a.m. Sunday in an area that may be a homeless encampment in the 8700 block of North Lindley Avenue, behind an industrial complex and near the railroad tracks. Firefighters found two dead men at the scene "inside of a human-dug cave/excavation."
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Because of concerns about the white powder, a hazardous materials team was called in to assist with removing the bodies.
Examination of the powder determined it contained "portions of fentanyl," LAFD Battalion chief Scott Hilton said.
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"We were able to mitigate that, secure it. We will be disposing of that," Hilton said.
Officials believe the two individuals likely died of a drug overdose, but a medical examiner will confirm a cause of death. Wind helped to dissipate the powder and the hazmat team did not detect any hazardous readings at the scene.