Albuquerque Daily Local Headlines: Line-of-duty death, bus vandalism arrest, wind risks
Albuquerque, NM – February 24, 2026 – A BCSO sergeant was killed on I-40, police made an arrest in bus BB-gun damage, and winds stay high this week.
1) Line-of-duty death on I-40
Officials say a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office sergeant was killed Monday, February 23, during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 eastbound near Carnuel after a crash involving a tractor-trailer. The department identified the deputy as Sgt. Michael Schlattman, who had served since 2012. Drivers should watch for lingering congestion and follow any posted lane restrictions as the response and investigation wrap up.
2) Arrest after BB-gun attacks on city buses
Albuquerque police say a 76-year-old man was arrested after investigators tied a series of BB-gun shootings to damage on city bus windows dating back to October. Authorities estimate the vandalism caused about $80,000 in damage, and they say the case involves multiple incidents. Transit riders can help by reporting new window damage promptly, especially if they notice a pattern along the same routes or times of day.
3) Loud boom alert: planned explosives test at Kirtland
Sandia National Laboratories is advising neighbors that a controlled explosives test is planned for Thursday, February 26, on the south side of Kirtland Air Force Base, sometime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Residents may hear a single loud blast, and there could be visible dust or dark smoke near the test site. The timing could shift if weather conditions change.
4) Wind and fire weather concerns
Forecasters are tracking several days of gusty winds, low humidity and elevated fire danger around central and eastern New Mexico. In the metro, that can mean tougher driving for high-profile vehicles, blowing dust that cuts visibility, and quicker spread if a brush fire starts. If you are doing yard work, skip anything that could spark, and secure patio furniture, trash lids and lightweight outdoor items.
Sources
- https://www.kunm.org/kunm-news-update/2026-02-24/tues-bcso-sergeant-killed-during-i-40-traffic-stop-more
- https://www.koat.com/article/76-year-old-man-arrested-for-shooting-a-bb-gun-at-city-buses/70449207
- https://www.koat.com/article/albuquerque-explosion-late-february-kirtland-test/70485413
- https://www.kob.com/news/top-news/high-winds-to-kick-up-and-last-through-thursday/