Toddler Slashed by Alleged Kidnapper Before Police Fatally Shoot Suspect in Omaha Walmart

Authorities say the 31-year-old woman stole a knife from the store before attempting to abduct the child.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:34am

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An extreme close-up of a large, serrated kitchen knife against a stark black background, conceptually representing the weapon used in a violent retail crime incident.A violent retail crime scene exposes the dangers of shoplifting and the need for improved security protocols.Omaha Today

A 31-year-old woman named Noemi Guzman allegedly shoplifted a knife from a Walmart in Omaha, Nebraska, on Tuesday, April 14, before approaching a 3-year-old boy and his guardian in the store. Guzman then forced the guardian to walk ahead of the shopping cart while the child remained inside, directing them to the parking lot. Police arrived and confronted Guzman, who refused to drop the knife and instead slashed the toddler's face. The officers then fatally shot Guzman.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of retail theft and the potential for violence when shoplifters are confronted, especially when children are involved. It also raises questions about security protocols and response times at major retail chains, as well as the use of force by law enforcement in high-stress situations.

The details

According to the Omaha Police Department, Guzman shoplifted a large kitchen knife from the Walmart before approaching the 3-year-old boy and his guardian inside the store. She then forced the guardian to walk ahead of the shopping cart with the child still inside, directing them to the parking lot. When police arrived, they commanded Guzman to drop the knife, but she refused and slashed the toddler's face. The officers then fired their weapons, fatally striking Guzman. The child was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 around 9:15 a.m. local time.
  • Guzman shoplifted the knife from the Walmart prior to the confrontation.

The players

Noemi Guzman

A 31-year-old woman who allegedly shoplifted a knife from Walmart and attempted to kidnap a 3-year-old boy before being fatally shot by police.

Omaha Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and fatally shot Guzman after she refused to drop the knife and slashed the toddler's face.

3-year-old boy

The child who was in the shopping cart when Guzman attempted to kidnap him, sustaining a slash wound to the face before being rescued.

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What they’re saying

“The community can be reassured in knowing that Omaha police officers stand ready to act with courage and decisiveness in the most serious situations to protect the public.”

— Todd Schmaderer, Omaha Police Chief

“We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Guzman.”

— Todd Schmaderer, Omaha Police Chief

“I am grateful for the professionalism and transparency of the Omaha Police Department in this matter.”

— John W. Ewing Jr., Omaha Mayor

What’s next

The Omaha Police Department's Involved Investigations Team, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Douglas and Sarpy County Sheriff's Offices are continuing to investigate the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic event underscores the need for heightened security measures and crisis intervention training to prevent such violent confrontations, especially when children are involved. It also raises broader questions about mental health resources, shoplifting policies, and the use of force by law enforcement.