Omaha Police Kill Woman Following Attempted Kidnapping and Slashing of Child at Walmart

A terrifying attempted kidnapping at an Omaha Walmart ended in tragedy and violence this past Tuesday, leaving a 31-year-aged woman dead and a three-year-old boy injured. Omaha police officers fatally shot the suspect after she slashed the child across the face during a standoff in the store’s parking lot.

Timeline of the Attack

The incident began inside the Walmart store, where the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Noemi Guzman, approached a family friend who was caring for a three-year-old boy named Kyler. According to Omaha Deputy Police Chief Scott Gray, Guzman brandished a large butcher knife—which investigators believe was stolen from the store—and took possession of the child.

Guzman forced the caretaker to walk ahead of the shopping cart while holding the boy at knifepoint. The pair eventually exited the store and moved down a driveway. For several minutes, the two women engaged in a verbal confrontation before law enforcement arrived on the scene following a 911 call.

Police Confrontation and Fatal Shooting

Upon arrival, officers encountered Guzman outside the Walmart, where she continued to threaten the child sitting in the shopping cart. Despite receiving commands from the police, Guzman swiped the knife at the boy, cutting him across the face.

In response to the immediate threat, at least one officer opened fire. Guzman was pronounced dead at the scene after officers attempted lifesaving measures, as reported by MSN.

Victim Recovery and Investigation

Kyler was transported to a hospital to be treated for a large laceration across the left side of his face and an injury to his hand. Authorities state that the child is expected to recover.

Deputy Chief Gray noted that there is no evidence suggesting Guzman knew the child or his caretaker, and the motive for the attack remains unknown. Police are currently reviewing store surveillance footage to further the investigation. While the incident was violent, officials believe it was an isolated event, noting that the suspect’s actions inside the store were “casual” enough that they didn’t immediately draw the attention of other shoppers, according to The Independent.

Suspect Background: Noemi Guzman

Court documents and police reports reveal a history of instability and crime for the suspect. Approximately one year ago, Guzman was ruled to be a danger to herself and others. Omaha police confirmed that Guzman had been involved in a break-in and a stabbing in 2024, as detailed by KETV.

In a disturbing detail, police revealed that officers had already had contact with Guzman earlier on Tuesday morning, shortly before the events at Walmart unfolded.

Key Takeaways

• The Suspect: 31-year-old Noemi Guzman was killed by police at the scene.
• The Victim: A 3-year-old boy named Kyler suffered facial and hand lacerations but is expected to survive.
• The Weapon: A butcher knife stolen from the Walmart store.
• Prior History: Guzman had a 2024 record of stabbing and breaking-in and was previously ruled a danger to others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did the suspect know the child?

No. According to Deputy Police Chief Scott Gray, there is no evidence that Noemi Guzman knew the child or the person caring for him.

How did the suspect get the knife?

Investigators believe the suspect took the butcher knife from inside the Walmart store before approaching the victims.

What is the current condition of the child?

The child was treated for a deep cut on his face and a hand injury; he is expected to recover.