Authorities continue searching for the Fort Sumner suspects while investigators in Bernalillo County review the circumstances surrounding Monday’s fatal crash.
Source: Las Cruces Police Department (via Facebook)
Images: Courtesy
New Mexico residents are being urged to remain alert after a man and woman accused of shooting at a New Mexico State Police officer during a traffic stop remain at large, in what became one of two serious law enforcement incidents reported across the state Monday.
Suspects Sought After Officer Shot At Near Fort Sumner
According to a statement released by the New Mexico State Police, officers are actively searching for a man and a female accomplice accused of shooting at an officer during a traffic stop near U.S. 285 at milepost 185, near Fort Sumner.
Authorities say the officer was not injured.
The suspects are believed to be traveling in a gray Kia bearing Texas license plate XMX8165. State Police have advised residents in and around the Fort Sumner area to remain inside their homes, lock doors, and immediately report sightings or suspicious activity by calling 911.
A photo of one of the suspect was provided (see above); however, officials emphasized that members of the public should not approach the suspects.
The Las Cruces Police Department shared the alert locally, urging residents to stay vigilant and contact law enforcement with any information regarding the suspects’ whereabouts.
The search remained active as of Tuesday.
Bernalillo County Sergeant Killed During Traffic Stop
Hours earlier, tragedy struck in central New Mexico when the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the line-of-duty death of Sergeant Michael Schlattman.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Schlattman was conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 40 eastbound near mile marker 170 shortly before 5 p.m. on February 23 when a semi-truck struck the rear of his patrol vehicle while he was outside the unit, pinning him beneath it.
He died at the scene from his injuries.
Schlattman joined the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office in April 2012 and was promoted to sergeant in July 2024. During his career, he served in multiple investigative assignments, including Special Investigations and Auto Theft, and worked alongside federal partners including the U.S. Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“This is every agency’s worst nightmare,” Sheriff John Allen said in a statement announcing the loss.
The Las Cruces Police Department also issued condolences, recognizing the impact of the loss across law enforcement agencies statewide.
A Reminder of the Risks Behind Routine Calls
While unrelated, the two incidents underscore the unpredictable dangers officers face during routine duties such as traffic stops — among the most common interactions between law enforcement and the public.
In one case, an officer encountered intentional violence during a roadside stop. In another, a routine enforcement action turned fatal due to roadway hazards.
Together, the events served as a stark reminder that risk in law enforcement can emerge without warning, whether from criminal action or everyday traffic conditions.
Authorities continue searching for the Fort Sumner suspects while investigators in Bernalillo County review the circumstances surrounding Monday’s fatal crash.
Anyone with information related to the State Police search is urged to contact 911 immediately.
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