Fatal Crash That Killed Sgt. Michael Schlattman Referred to the District Attorney

Albuquerque –

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update after a final briefing from the Rio Rancho Police Department regarding the investigation into the February 23, 2026, crash that resulted in the death of BCSO Sergeant Michael Schlattman.

Earlier today, Rio Rancho Police Department Traffic Investigators and command staff briefed representatives from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, including the agency’s Traffic Unit, on the completion of their investigation and the final findings. The RRPD has informed the BCSO that the case has been forwarded to the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office for review. The District Attorney’s Office will make the final charging decisions.

According to the findings presented by RRPD, Sgt. Schlattman had initiated a traffic stop east of the Carnuel exit when a semi-truck traveling westbound on Interstate 40 struck the rear of his marked patrol unit. The impact pushed the patrol vehicle into Sgt. Schlattman, causing fatal injuries. RRPD identified the semi-truck driver as Miguel Orlando Perez, who holds a valid Florida Class A commercial driver’s license. Investigators determined the semi-truck was traveling approximately 64 miles per hour at the time of impact and that no brakes were applied before the collision. The investigation also found no mechanical issues with the semi-truck or the patrol unit. RRPD identified contributing factors that included sun glare, the position of the patrol vehicle, and semi-driver inattention.

RRPD further advised that investigators developed probable cause for charges of Careless Driving and Operation of Vehicles on Approach of Moving Authorized Emergency Vehicles. Those findings have been submitted to the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office for review.

“Michael Schlattman was a respected leader, a dedicated sergeant, and a man who gave his life in service to this community,” said Sheriff John Allen. “We are grateful to the Rio Rancho Police Department for their work and for briefing our agency on the final findings. While no investigation can ever undo this loss, we remain committed to honoring Sgt. Schlattman’s memory and seeing this process through.”

To honor Sgt. Schlattman’s legacy, the BCSO requests that every driver remember the significance of New Mexico’s Move Over Law. By slowing down, moving over, and providing first responders with the necessary space, we can ensure their safety while they perform their duties. If you encounter law enforcement, please pull over as far to the right as it is safe to do so.

BCSO stated they “appreciate the work of the Rio Rancho Police Department Traffic Unit and all partner agencies involved in the investigation.“

On a X.com post, the Bernalillo County District Attorney Office said the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office received the case this morning and is currently reviewing it. Once that review is complete, our Office will make the findings public.