A veteran law enforcement officer with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office lost his life Monday evening after a tractor-trailer struck his patrol unit along Interstate 40, authorities confirmed.
Sgt. Michael Schlattman died at the scene after being pinned beneath his department-issued vehicle during a traffic stop on I-40 eastbound near Carnuel. The crash occurred late Monday afternoon while he was outside his vehicle conducting official duties, according to a statement provided by BCSO spokesperson Jayme Gonzales.
In an early morning news briefing, Sheriff John Allen spoke emotionally about the loss, describing Schlattman — known among colleagues as “Schlatty” — as a steady presence and committed leader within the department.
“He was known for being a true leader in the field,” Allen said, reflecting on the sergeant’s approach to supervision and service. He added that Schlattman consistently sought ways to strengthen the agency and support fellow deputies.
Schlattman joined BCSO in 2012 and was promoted to sergeant in 2024. Over the course of his career, he served in multiple assignments, including time as a detective in special investigations and auto theft units. He also worked 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 as a sergeant in the East Mountains area.
Sheriff Allen said several individuals were injured in the incident, including the driver of the semi-truck. All were transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital for treatment.
Investigation underway, community responds
Authorities confirmed that dash-camera footage from the traffic stop is under review as investigators work to determine the full sequence of events. Multiple people were affected by the crash, officials said, and further details will be released as facts are confirmed.
“We always want to make sure we give our community transparency and facts,” Allen stated, noting that the investigation remains active.
The crash forced the closure of both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-40 for several hours Monday night, with closures continuing into early Tuesday.
Schlattman is the first officer in New Mexico to be killed in the line of duty this year. In 2024, two other officers — Antonio Aleman of the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office and Timothy Ontiveros of the Bloomfield Police Department — were also killed while serving their communities.
A law enforcement procession traveled along I-40 late Monday, escorting Schlattman to the Office of the Medical Investigator. Plans for a memorial service will be announced once the family is ready.
“Sergeant Schlattman was a servant leader and a protector in the truest sense,” Allen said. “Our hearts are broken, and we are asking our community to carry this family and this agency in your prayers.”
