Police in Omaha, Nebraska, fatally shot a woman accused of kidnapping and attacking a toddler at a Walmart. Officers were called to the store shortly after 9.10 am following reports of a woman carrying a "large kitchen knife" and in possession of a young child, according to the Omaha Police department, reported New York Post.
Surveillance footage later showed the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Noemi Guzman, allegedly shoplifting the knife before approaching a three-year-old boy and his guardian inside the store.
Also Read | Who is Mayushi Bhagat? Indian student missing for 6 years in US; FBI announces Rs 9.38 lakh reward
Threats and alleged kidnapping
Police said Guzman brandished the weapon and forced the child's guardian to move ahead while the boy remained in a shopping cart. She then led them through the store and out into the parking lot.
"The knife-wielding woman took possession of the child, essentially kidnapping the child," Deputy Chief Scott Gray said at a press conference, NY Post said.
Responding officers located Guzman outside, standing near the cart with the child still inside. Authorities said she continued making threats and ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon.
Officers open fire
According to police, Guzman then slashed the toddler before officers discharged their weapons. Body camera images captured the tense moment, showing her holding the knife close to the child's face.
Officers opened fire, striking Guzman. The child's guardian and a bystander quickly pulled the boy from the cart and began providing aid.
Guzman was given life-saving treatment at the scene but was later pronounced dead, police said.
Child recovering, investigation underway
The child suffered a large laceration to the left side of his face and a hand injury. Authorities said he is being treated at a hospital and is expected to survive.
"The responding officers acted with professionalism and direct action to intervene and save a child’s life," Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said in a statement.
Also Read | Nevada jolted by 5.7 magnitude earthquake, residents feel strong tremors
"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," Schmaderer said.
The case will be investigated by the department's officer-Involved Investigations Team along with the Nebraska State Patrol and local sheriff's offices.
"The Omaha Police Department offers its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Guzman during this difficult time," the department said in a statement.
