Officers in Nebraska fatally shot a woman who kidnapped a three-year-old boy from a Walmart at knifepoint and slashed his face before police could intervene, according to authorities and body camera footage released Tuesday.

Knife-Wielding Kidnapper Confronts Shoppers

Surveillance cameras captured 31-year-old Noemi Guzman stealing a knife from the Omaha Walmart before approaching the toddler and his guardian in a store aisle. Guzman brandished the weapon and forced the female shopper to walk ahead while the child remained in the shopping cart. She led them through the store and into the parking lot, taking control of the boy in what Deputy Chief Scott Gray described as an apparent kidnapping. The terrifying ordeal unfolded in full view of security systems.

Officers Respond to Active Threat

A two-officer patrol unit arrived to find Guzman standing by the shopping cart with the young victim still inside. Body camera footage shows Guzman, wearing a purple tank top and plaid pants with dyed red hair, holding the large knife near the boy’s face as officers drew their firearms. Despite multiple commands to drop the weapon, Guzman slashed the child across the left side of his face and hand. Both officers fired their weapons, striking Guzman as bystanders immediately pulled the injured toddler from the cart and began rendering medical aid.

Child Survives, Suspect Dies at Scene

First responders provided lifesaving measures to Guzman, but she died in the parking lot. The three-year-old victim was transported to a hospital where he received treatment for a large laceration to his face and hand. Medical personnel expect him to make a full recovery from his injuries. Police Chief Todd Schmaderer praised the responding officers for acting with professionalism and courage to protect the child’s life during the dangerous encounter.

Investigation Underway

The Omaha Police Department Officer-Involved Investigations Team is conducting a full review of the incident alongside the Nebraska State Patrol and the Douglas and Sarpy County Sheriff’s Offices. Chief Schmaderer assured the community that officers demonstrated the decisiveness required in life-threatening situations. The department extended condolences to Guzman’s family and friends while emphasizing their commitment to public safety. The investigation will examine all aspects of the confrontation, including the timeline of events and officer response protocols during active threats to children.