A 3-year-old boy is recovering after undergoing surgery following a violent attack outside a Walmart in Omaha, Nebraska, where police say a woman attempted to kidnap him before slashing his face with a knife, as reported [1] by the New York Post.
The child, identified as Cyler Hillman, suffered significant injuries during the incident, which unfolded around 9 a.m. Tuesday.
According to authorities, 31-year-old Noemi Guzman allegedly initiated the attack inside the store before forcing the child and a caretaker outside.
A GoFundMe has been set up for the 3 year old child who miraculously survived a horrific knife attack by an insane psychopath with a disturbing criminal history.
Please consider helping with a few dollars. https://t.co/FOHoybwkU6 [2] pic.twitter.com/IShYkbRR1w [3]
— Old Row (@OldRowOfficial) April 16, 2026 [4]
Police said Guzman first stole a knife while inside the Walmart and then confronted the boy and his caretaker in an aisle. Authorities reported that she forced them through the store and into the parking lot.
Once outside, the situation escalated further. Deputy Chief Scott Gray told reporters, “took possession of the child, essentially kidnapping the child.”
Responding officers arrived as Guzman continued making threats with the knife. Police said she ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon.
During the confrontation, authorities said Guzman slashed the boy, causing a large laceration across the left side of his face and an additional injury to his hand.
Body camera footage showed Guzman holding the knife near the child’s face as officers drew their weapons. Police then opened fire [5], striking Guzman.
Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but Guzman died at the scene from her injuries, according to officials.
The child was transported to a nearby hospital, where he underwent surgery.
A family photo obtained by KETV showed Cyler Hillman sitting in his father’s lap, wrapped in a blanket and holding a stuffed animal, with visible stitches on his face and hand.
Cyler Hillman, recovering in the hospital, with his Dad. He’s so lucky it wasn’t worse.. could have been his eyes. https://t.co/hvXYF7EJW9 [6] pic.twitter.com/Xr0ZEbArTM [7]
— Naran Row-Spaulding (@NRSmaine) April 15, 2026 [8]
His parents described him as their “little cowboy” and said they expect him to make a full recovery, according to the outlet.
Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer addressed the response, stating that officers acted “with professionalism and direct action to intervene and save a child’s life.”
Authorities said Guzman’s motive remains unclear. However, records indicate she had a history of violence and mental illness.
In 2024, she broke into a church, threatened a priest, attacked her father, and attempted to set his home on fire, according to the Omaha World-Herald.
In that case, a judge found Guzman not responsible by reason of insanity on charges that included second-degree assault, first-degree arson, burglary, and criminal mischief.
She was ordered to remain on medication and continue treatment with a psychiatrist.
Guzman also had a prior conviction from 2018 for assaulting another woman. She was sentenced to two years of probation but was released after five months due to good behavior.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as authorities continue to review the circumstances leading up to the attack.