BERNALILLO COUNTY, N.M. — A semi truck driver has been officially charged in a crash that resulted in the death of a law enforcement officer in New Mexico.
According to a release issued by the Bernalillo County District Attorney, Miguel Orlando Perez has been charged in connection with the February 23, 2026 crash that killed Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Michael Schlattman on Interstate 40 near the Carnuel exit.
Perez is charged with Careless Driving and Operation of Vehicle on Approach of Emergency Vehicle.
According to the release, the Rio Rancho Police Department investigation found Sgt. Schlattman had completed a traffic stop in the westbound lanes of Interstate 40 and was returning to his patrol vehicle when it was struck from behind by a semi truck driven by Perez. The impact pushed the patrol unit into Sgt. Schlattman, causing fatal injuries.
The DA said investigators determined the semi truck was traveling approximately 64 mph at the time of the crash and that no brakes were applied before impact. The investigation also found no mechanical issues with either the semi-truck or Sgt. Schlattman’s patrol vehicle.
Contributing factors identified by investigators included sun glare, the position of the patrol vehicle, and driver inattention.
The DA added that Perez holds a valid Florida Class A commercial driver’s license.
The case was investigated by the Rio Rancho Police Department and later submitted to the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office for review and charging consideration.
Perez is due in court next month
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
