Omaha Walmart Kidnapping Attempt: Police Fatally Shoot Suspect After Slashed Toddler

A terrifying attempted kidnapping at an Omaha Walmart ended in tragedy Tuesday morning when police were forced to shoot and kill a suspect who slashed a young boy with a stolen knife.

It all unfolded just after 9 a.m. at the store near 72nd and Pine streets. Authorities say 31-year-old Noemi Guzman first shoplifted a large kitchen knife from inside the Walmart. She then approached a caretaker and her three-year-old boy named Cyler Hillman in one of the aisles. Brandishing the weapon she took control of their shopping cart and forced the guardian to walk ahead while directing them out of the store and into the parking lot.

A frantic call brought Omaha police officers to the scene within minutes. When they arrived they spotted Guzman standing near the cart with the toddler still inside. She was holding the knife and making threats. Officers immediately gave her multiple commands to drop the weapon. But instead of complying she slashed the little boy across his face and hand.

Without hesitation the two responding officers fired their service weapons striking Guzman. A caretaker and a quick thinking bystander pulled the child to safety and began aiding him while officers tried to save Guzman. Despite their efforts she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The boy whose family has described him as their little cowboy suffered a cut to his face and hand. He was rushed to the hospital and underwent surgery. His mother later shared that he is recovering well and doctors expect him to pull through.

Investigators have confirmed there was no connection between Guzman and the victims. It appears to have been a random and senseless act. Store surveillance video clearly captured her stealing the knife and forcing the pair through the building.

This was not Guzmans first brush with the law. Last year she was involved in a serious mental health crisis where she allegedly stabbed her father doused him with flammable liquid and tried to set their home on fire. She then broke into a nearby church rectory armed with a knife causing significant damage before being taken into custody. She had been released on bond prior to Tuesdays events.

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer praised the officers for their decisive action saying they acted with professionalism to save the childs life. The mayor also thanked the department for their quick response.

The incident remains under investigation with officers placed on standard paid leave. Walmart released a statement calling the violence unacceptable and confirming they are cooperating fully with police.

In the end a community is left shaken but grateful that the young boy survived what could have been far worse.