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Published 15:29 15 Apr 2026 GMT
Shocking new photo of toddler released after woman attacked him with knife as he was in shopping cart - she was shot dead
Police in Omaha have released further details after a terrifying attempted kidnapping at a Walmart ended in a fatal police shooting.
The Omaha Police Department confirmed the woman killed was 31-year-old Noemi Guzman, who had a history of prior incidents, including an arrest linked to a house fire and an alleged church break-in. She had been scheduled for an annual review on June 12.
The incident that left a child with facial injuries
The incident began at around 9:15 a.m. at a Walmart near 72nd and Pine Streets. Officers responded quickly after Guzman was spotted with a three-year-old boy sitting in a shopping cart.
Police say officers repeatedly told her to drop the knife, but instead she began attacking the child, prompting both officers to open fire.
Investigators say surveillance footage shows Guzman took a large kitchen knife from inside the store before approaching the child and guardian. She allegedly forced the guardian to walk ahead while taking control of the cart and attempting to move toward the parking lot. Officers intercepted them as they were exiting.
After the shooting, police attempted life-saving measures on Guzman, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Huge hospital expenses prompt family to set up a GoFundMe page
In the aftermath, the child, identified as Cyler, was pulled from the cart by his guardian and a bystander, who immediately began helping him. He was rushed to hospital with injuries described as non-life threatening, though serious. Cyler suffered cuts to his face and hand, requiring surgery and stitches.
Images later shared by the family show the toddler sitting in his father’s lap in a hospital chair following the ordeal, as well as pictures of the injuries sustained by Cyler, including a large slash across the side of his face, which required both surgery and several stitches.
According to loved ones, the Hillman family has been left deeply shaken. A fundraiser set up to support them states they are “shaken and in need of support,” as they face mounting medical bills, therapy costs and day-to-day expenses during Cyler’s recovery.
The situation has also taken a financial toll. Cyler’s father had been attending a job interview at the time of the attack and was hoping to secure new work, but those plans have now been put on hold.
“Due to Cyler’s condition and the need for his father to be by his side during recovery and therapy, employment will have to wait,” organizer Tanya Gifford wrote. She added: “This unexpected turn has created financial stress at home, as Cyler’s father must focus on his son’s healing rather than work.”
Cyler’s mother, Sara Hillman, also appealed for support online, telling followers: “please pray for my baby.”
The officers involved have been placed on paid leave in line with policy, and the investigation remains ongoing with assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol and local sheriff’s offices.
Police Chief Todd Schmaderer praised the response, saying: “The responding officers acted with professionalism and direct action to intervene and save a child’s life.” He added, “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.”
Deputy Chief Scott Gray also reassured residents, stating: “There is no threat to the public.”
The Walmart store was temporarily cleared as investigations began. In a statement, Walmart said: “Violence like this is unacceptable. We’re working with police and supporting them in their investigation.”