Noemi Guzman Shot Dead by Police After Allegedly Slashing Toddler’s Face During Attempted Kidnapping at Omaha Walmart

A violent incident at an Omaha, Nebraska Walmart left a 3-year-old boy injured and a suspect dead after police say she attempted to kidnap the child and attacked him with a knife.

Authorities identified the suspect as Noemi Guzman, 31, who was fatally shot by officers Tuesday morning after refusing to drop a weapon and continuing to pose a threat.

Incident Unfolds Inside Omaha Walmart

According to the Omaha Police Department, the incident began around 9:15 a.m. at a Walmart located at 1606 South 72nd Street, near Pine Street.

Investigators say Guzman took a large kitchen knife from inside the store before approaching a 3-year-old boy and his guardian in a shopping aisle. Surveillance footage reportedly shows her confronting the pair and forcing the guardian to walk ahead while the child remained seated in a shopping cart.

She then directed them out of the store and into the parking lot while still armed.

Police Confrontation Turns Deadly

Officers responded quickly after receiving a 911 call reporting an armed woman with a child. They located Guzman outside the store pushing the cart with the toddler still inside.

Police said Guzman made multiple threats and ignored repeated commands to drop the knife. During the confrontation, she slashed the child’s face.

Officers then fired their weapons, striking Guzman. Despite attempts to provide lifesaving aid, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Toddler Injured but Expected to Recover

The child was immediately removed from the cart by his guardian and a bystander, who began providing aid before emergency crews arrived.

He was transported by Omaha Fire Department medics to a children’s hospital, where he is being treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening.

Officials Praise Police Response

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer commended the officers’ actions, stating their quick response helped prevent further harm.

“The community can be reassured that our officers acted with courage and decisiveness in a dangerous situation,” he said.

Omaha Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. also praised the department for its professionalism and transparency following the incident.