Woman shot dead by police after approaching child in shopping cart

The little boy was rapidly taken to a children’s hospital by the Omaha Fire Department for medical treatment. Luckily, the boy’s injuries were not considered life-threatening.

After watching store surveillance footage, investigators determined that Noemi Guzman had shoplifted the knife from inside the store. She then approached the child and its guardian in a shopping aisle, showing them the knife, and forced the person to “walk ahead of the cart while the child remained inside.”

“Ms. Guzman directed them through the store and into the parking lot. Officers arrived shortly after Ms. Guzman, the guardian, and child exited the store and began walking east toward the parking lot entrance,” the Facebook post further read.

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

Police officers praised by Omaha Mayor

Omaha Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. has given his gratitude to the police officers for their quick actions.”

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

Police say the investigation remains ongoing. Meanwhile, they added, “The Omaha Police Department offers its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Guzman during this difficult time,” they wrote.

On Wednesday, a Walmart spokesperson, per Sky, said: “Violence like this is unacceptable.” The company confirmed it is cooperating with the investigation.

The Omaha Police Department is asking any independent witnesses who may have observed or recorded any actions of Ms. Guzman during this incident to please contact the department directly at 402-444-4877. Please reference Report Number: AA31063 when calling. Your information could be valuable to the ongoing investigation.