Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Sergeant Michael Schlattman Killed in I-40 Crash
A sergeant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Michael Schlattman, was fatally struck by a semi-truck even as conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 40 near Carnuel, New Mexico, on Monday, February 23, 2026. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief from law enforcement officials and the wider community.
Details of the Incident
According to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Sergeant Schlattman initiated a traffic stop on eastbound I-40 around 5:00 p.m. After radioing that he had begun the stop and exiting his patrol vehicle, a semi-truck collided with the rear of his vehicle, pinning him underneath . He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sergeant Schlattman’s Career
Sergeant Schlattman joined the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office on April 16, 2012, and was promoted to sergeant on July 13, 2024 . Throughout his career, he served in various assignments, including Special Investigations, Auto Theft, and as a task force officer with the United States Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the East Mountains area.
Official Statements
New Mexico Department of Public Safety Cabinet Secretary Jason R. Bowie expressed his heartbreak over Sergeant Schlattman’s death, stating he served his community with “courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment” . Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen described Schlattman, also known as “Schlatty” to his colleagues, as a “true leader in the field” who was dedicated to improving the agency .
Traffic Impact
The crash resulted in the closure of both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-40. Eastbound lanes have since reopened, and all westbound lanes reopened around 6:55 a.m. On Tuesday, February 24, 2026 . Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and the timeline for the full reopening of the highway remains unknown.
Remembering Sergeant Schlattman
Sergeant Michael Schlattman is remembered as a dedicated law enforcement officer who served the Bernalillo County community with distinction. His death is a significant loss for the Sheriff’s Office and the state of New Mexico .