Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) – Charges were filed today against a truck driver in connection with the February crash that killed Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Michael Schlattman on Interstate 40 near the Carnuel exit. Miguel Orlando Perez, of Florida, is charged with Careless Driving and Operation of Vehicle on Approach of Emergency Vehicle.
The Rio Rancho Police Department investigation found Sgt. Schlattman had completed a traffic stop in the westbound lanes of I-40 and was walking back 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.
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. Investigators also determined other contributing factors such as sun glare, the position of the patrol vehicle, and driver inattention.
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.
