Police Report: Walmart Shopper Armed with Knife Attacks Toddler in Shopping Cart

In Omaha, Nebraska, law enforcement officials shot and killed a 31-year-old woman in a Walmart parking lot after she reportedly attempted to stab a child seated in a shopping cart. The incident took place on Tuesday morning, as confirmed by the authorities.

The chilling episode began shortly after 9 a.m. at the Walmart located at 1606 South 72nd Street, according to a statement from the Omaha Police Department. Initially, a 911 call was made requesting police presence, but the caller provided limited details. This was followed by another call reporting a woman armed with a “large kitchen knife” attacking a child.

Upon arrival, officers encountered Noemi Guzman, the 31-year-old suspect, who was armed and standing near the child in the cart, according to police reports. Despite commands to disarm, Guzman allegedly threatened and then injured the boy. The officers discharged their weapons, striking Guzman, who succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

The child was quickly taken to safety by his guardian and a passerby, and his injuries were later deemed non-life-threatening, police stated. Guzman was declared deceased on-site.

Surveillance footage revealed that Guzman had stolen the knife used in the attack. After taking the knife, she approached the child and guardian in an aisle and reportedly coerced the guardian to accompany her around the store with the child in the cart.

They eventually exited the store before encountering cops. Police released harrowing still images from the officer’s body camera of Guzman making a stabbing motion toward the boy.

“The responding officers acted with professionalism and direct action to intervene and save a child’s life,” said Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer. “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.”

Omaha Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. thanked police for quick action that prevented a “larger tragedy.”

“I am grateful for the department’s professionalism and transparency,” he said.

Officers say it’s unclear why Guzman allegedly targeted the guardian and child. The boy’s parents shared photos of his injuries with local ABC affiliate KETV which showed he suffered gashes along his face just above his ear and on his hand. He underwent surgery and is recovering at the hospital.