Findings released in crash that killed Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Sergeant

RIO RANCHO, NM – The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office will review a report on the crash that killed Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Michael Schlattman, according to KRQE.

The fatal accident took place in February on Interstate 40 west near mile marker 170 at Carnuel. The sheriff’s office said that Sgt. Schlattman was conducting a traffic stop on the interstate at about 5 p.m. and radioed that he had exited his patrol unit.

While he was outside his vehicle, a semi-truck crashed into the back of the vehicle. Sgt. Schlattman was pinned underneath and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Rio Rancho Police Department released the findings of their investigation into the crash last week and submitted them to the D.A.’s office.

The RRRPD’s report cites the inattention of the driver, identified as Miguel Orlando Perez, as a contributing factor in the wreck, and recommends that he be charged with careless driving.

Investigators determined the semi-truck was traveling approximately 64 miles per hour at the time of impact and that no brakes were applied before the collision. The investigation also found no mechanical issues with the semi-truck or the patrol unit.

CMV accident causes lane closure on Interstate 40 east

CLINES CORNERS, NM – An accident involving a commercial motor vehicle caused traffic disruptions along a stretch of Interstate 40 on Monday afternoon.

According to an advisory on NMRoads shortly before 3 p.m., the crash happened on I-40 eastbound at mile marker 228, ten miles east of Clines Corners.

The right lane of the interstate was shut down while emergency services crews worked to clear the scene.

Los Alamos woman, 96, identified as victim of crash on NM 502

SANTA FE COUNTY, NM – The victim of a fatal accident in Santa Fe County earlier this month has been identified, the Santa Fe New Mexican reports.

Authorities said the woman killed in the May 6 wreck was 96-year-old Rita Apel of Los Alamos.

Two vehicles were involved in the crash on New Mexico 502 near San Ildefonso Pueblo. No charges have been filed so far in the incident, which remains under investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office’s traffic homicide investigation team.

It is not suspected that alcohol was a contributing factor, but it may take several weeks for investigators to complete their report.

Have you been hurt? Then call Bert!

If you or a loved one has been badly injured in a car accident that was someone else’s fault, you have every right to want that individual to pay for the pain they have caused you. The Albuquerque car accident lawyers at Parnall Law will fight on your behalf to obtain compensation for expenses from medical bills, car repairs, lost income, and other losses. You can schedule a free consultation with us to discuss the details of your case by completing our contact form or calling (505) 268-6500.