02/24/2026
We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Deputy Michael B. Schlattman from the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office. On behalf of the men and women of the Española Police Department, we extend our deepest condolences to Deputy Schlattman’s family, friends, and brothers and sisters from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office.
This loss is felt far beyond county lines. In law enforcement, we stand as one family bound by service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to protect our communities. Today, we grieve alongside BCSO, honoring a life dedicated to courage, integrity, and selfless service.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, County of Bernalillo, State of New Mexico and the Law Enforcement community during this incredibly difficult time. May we carry forward the legacy of Deputy Schlattman’s dedication by continuing to serve with strength and compassion
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is devastated to announce the line of duty death of Sergeant Michael Schlattman, who died this evening as a result of injuries sustained during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 eastbound near the 170.
Sergeant Schlattman was hired by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office on April 16, 2012, and was promoted to Sergeant on July 13, 2024. During his career, he served the people of Bernalillo County in multiple assignments, including time as a detective in Special Investigations and 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, Sergeant Schlattman was assigned as a Sergeant in the East Mountains.
On the evening of February 23, 2026, just before 5:00 p.m., Sergeant Schlattman called over the radio to advise he was conducting a traffic stop. While he was outside the vehicle, a semi truck struck the rear of his department issued vehicle, ultimately pinning him beneath. Sergeant Schlattman died on scene as a result of his injuries.
This is a heartbreaking loss for the Schlattman family, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and the entire community we serve.
Sergeant Schlattman was the kind of leader deputies hope for and families trust. He was known for being present, involved, and relentless in his support of others. He was not a supervisor who stayed behind a desk. He was consistently out in the field, finding the work, backing his deputies, answering calls for service, and pushing to be proactive. He was the steady voice and the steady presence that made everyone around him better.
“This is every agency’s worst nightmare, and tonight it is ours,” said Sheriff John Allen. “Sergeant Schlattman was a servant leader and a protector in the truest sense. He was the kind of supervisor who never asked a deputy to do something he would not do himself. Our hearts are broken, and we are asking our community to carry this family, and this agency, in your prayers.”
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s support and compassion as we navigate the days ahead. We ask the community to keep Sergeant Schlattman’s family, friends, and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers. We also ask for patience and respect as investigators continue their work and as the family is given space to grieve.
Information regarding memorial services will be shared as soon as it is available and the family is ready.
