Noemi Guzman Obituary, Death: Police Investigate Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting at Omaha Walmart
A tragic officer-involved shooting in Omaha has left 31-year-old Noemi Guzman dead and a young child injured, prompting an active investigation by the Omaha Police Department.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, April 14, 2026, at a Walmart store located on South 72nd Street. Authorities say the situation began when a 911 call—reportedly placed by Guzman—was suddenly disconnected. A second caller alerted dispatchers that a woman armed with a large kitchen knife was in the store with a small child.
Officers responded to the scene around 9:13 a.m. and encountered Guzman in the parking lot, where she was allegedly holding a knife near a shopping cart carrying a 3-year-old boy. Despite repeated commands from officers to drop the weapon, police say she refused and continued making threats.
According to investigators, the situation escalated when Guzman allegedly injured the child. Officers then discharged their firearms, striking her. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The young boy was quickly rescued by a guardian and a bystander, who provided immediate aid before he was transported to a nearby hospital. Officials later confirmed that his injuries were not life-threatening.
Further investigation, including surveillance footage, revealed that Guzman had allegedly taken the knife from inside the store before the confrontation. Video also showed her forcing the child and a guardian through the aisles and into the parking lot prior to the shooting.
Todd Schmaderer, Chief of Police, stated that the officers acted swiftly and professionally in a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation, likely preventing further harm.
The case is currently under review by the department’s Officer-Involved Investigations Team, with assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol and local sheriff’s offices. Authorities confirmed that body-worn cameras and store surveillance systems captured key moments of the incident.
As is standard protocol, the officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Officials have also extended condolences to Guzman’s family and emphasized that a full and transparent review is ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant video footage is encouraged to contact the Omaha Police Department as investigations continue.