Boy, 3, who was slashed by woman in Walmart parking lot issued heartbreaking request at hospital

A violent incident in Omaha has left a young child injured and a community shaken after a knife attack in a Walmart parking lot led to a fatal police shooting.

According to the Omaha Police Department, officers responded on the morning of April 14 to reports of a woman threatening people with a large kitchen knife. Authorities say the suspect, identified as Noemi Guzman, had taken a 3-year-old child and ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon.

Police stated that Guzman cut the child before officers opened fire, fatally striking her at the scene. Bystanders and the child’s guardian quickly intervened, removing the boy and providing aid until emergency responders arrived.

Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators indicates the knife was taken from inside the store prior to the attack. Officials say Guzman approached the child and guardian inside the store before forcing them toward the parking lot.

The child, identified as Cyler Hillman, was transported to a hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. Authorities credited the rapid response of officers and civilians with preventing a more serious outcome.

Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said responding officers acted “with professionalism and direct action” in a situation that required immediate intervention to protect the child.

In the aftermath, Cyler’s father, Casey Hillman, spoke about the emotional toll on his son. He said the boy’s first concerns at the hospital were simple but poignant—asking for his father, a bandage, and to go home.

While physically recovering, the child has reportedly been left shaken by the ordeal and is now fearful of leaving the house, a stark change from his previously fearless demeanor.

A fundraiser has been launched to help cover medical expenses as the family continues to cope with the aftermath. Authorities say the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.