Naomi Oglesby Fatally Shot in Wichita Apartment; Baby Delivered Before Her Death Now in NICU—19-Year-Old Matthew Wayne Criscenzo Arrested for First-Degree Murder

In a heartbreaking and deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the community of Wichita, Kansas, 20-year-old Naomi Oglesby, a young pregnant woman described by friends and family as kind-hearted and full of life, was tragically shot and killed inside her apartment. The fatal shooting occurred in the early hours of a quiet weekday morning, sending emergency responders into swift action. Despite the fatal nature of her injuries, medical personnel made a valiant effort to save both Naomi and her unborn child.

Upon arrival at the hospital, Naomi’s condition was critical. Doctors rushed to perform an emergency delivery, managing to bring her baby into the world before she succumbed to her injuries. The infant, whose gender has not yet been publicly disclosed, is now receiving intensive care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Though the full extent of the baby’s condition remains uncertain, the fact that the child survived at all is being regarded as a small miracle amid a larger tragedy.

What Happened? A Timeline of Events

On [exact date], Wichita police responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at an apartment complex located near [address, if known]. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Naomi Oglesby suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, it quickly became evident that her injuries were life-threatening. She was rushed to a nearby hospital, where medical staff immediately began emergency procedures to save her and her unborn child.

Tragically, Naomi was pronounced dead shortly after the delivery of her baby.

At the scene, police arrested Matthew Wayne Criscenzo, a 19-year-old male who is believed to have known Naomi. According to preliminary investigations, Criscenzo was present in the apartment at the time of the shooting and was taken into custody without incident. He is currently being held on a charge of first-degree murder, though police have not released detailed information on the motive or any prior history between Criscenzo and Oglesby.

Community Reaction and Family Grief

The news of Naomi’s death has devastated her family and friends. Described by loved ones as a vibrant, warm individual who was excited about becoming a mother, Naomi had her whole life ahead of her. Her family has released a statement expressing their profound grief and asking for privacy during this unimaginably difficult time.

“This is a loss that words cannot describe. Naomi was a beautiful soul who loved deeply and had so much to live for. The fact that her baby is alive gives us some comfort, but we are broken by her loss,” one family member said.

A candlelight vigil has already been planned by the local community, who have rallied together in support of Naomi’s family. Many residents of the neighborhood expressed both sorrow and anger over the senseless act of violence.

The Investigation

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the shooting. As of now, police have not disclosed the exact circumstances that led to the violence, but they have confirmed that Naomi and Matthew Wayne Criscenzo were “acquainted” and that this was not a random act.

Criscenzo has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently being held in Sedgwick County Jail without bond. Additional charges could be forthcoming pending the outcome of the investigation and the condition of the newborn child.

Detectives are interviewing witnesses, gathering forensic evidence, and reviewing any possible surveillance footage from the surrounding area. It has not yet been confirmed whether the firearm used in the shooting has been recovered.

Authorities are also working closely with the District Attorney’s office to determine the full scope of charges Criscenzo could face. Depending on the baby’s condition and further developments, prosecutors may consider additional counts, possibly related to attempted murder or assault of an unborn child.

Who Was Naomi Oglesby?

Naomi Oglesby was only 20 years old and reportedly in the later stages of her pregnancy. According to friends, she had been preparing to welcome her first child and was looking forward to motherhood. A recent graduate of [school, if known], Naomi had aspirations of becoming a nurse and had enrolled in courses that she hoped would lead her into the healthcare profession.

“She was so excited to be a mom. She talked about baby names, setting up the nursery, and being the kind of mom who would be her child’s best friend,” said one close friend. “It’s unbearable to think someone could take that from her.”

Naomi’s social media pages have since been filled with tributes from friends, classmates, and members of the community. The general tone of remembrance underscores her kindness, determination, and the radiant joy she shared with others.

The Baby’s Condition and Care

The baby, whose name has not yet been released, is currently in stable condition in the NICU. Hospital officials have declined to offer specifics about the child’s health due to privacy laws but confirmed that the baby is receiving round-the-clock medical attention.

Medical experts explain that delivering a baby in emergency trauma conditions—particularly after maternal trauma such as a gunshot wound—is incredibly high-risk. That the infant survived delivery under such tragic circumstances speaks to the skill of the medical team and the resilience of the newborn.

Community members have already begun organizing donation drives and GoFundMe campaigns to assist with the baby’s ongoing care and to help support Naomi’s grieving family.

Legal Proceedings Against Matthew Wayne Criscenzo

Matthew Wayne Criscenzo is facing the full weight of the justice system as he begins his legal journey through what promises to be a closely followed and emotionally charged trial. At 19, Criscenzo is legally considered an adult and will be tried accordingly.

If convicted of first-degree murder, he faces life imprisonment under Kansas state law. Prosecutors have not yet confirmed whether they will pursue additional charges connected to the unborn child, nor whether Criscenzo has obtained legal representation.

At the moment, no motive has been publicly disclosed, and authorities have not stated whether there was a history of domestic violence or any previous police calls to the residence.

Broader Context: Domestic Violence and Maternal Mortality

This tragic case also sheds light on broader issues facing young women in America, particularly those involving domestic violence and gun-related deaths. According to the CDC, homicide is one of the leading causes of death among pregnant and postpartum women in the United States. Many advocacy groups are calling for increased support systems and protections for pregnant women, including better screening for domestic abuse and improved housing and community safety initiatives.

Naomi’s case is unfortunately not isolated. Experts note that intimate partner violence often escalates during pregnancy, a time when women are particularly vulnerable.

Advocates are now using Naomi’s story to renew calls for preventative policies, including red-flag gun laws, better maternal healthcare support, and targeted intervention programs for at-risk women.

A Life Taken, A Legacy in the Balance

As the investigation unfolds and the legal process begins, one thing remains clear: a young life was taken too soon, and another life hangs in the balance. Naomi Oglesby’s death is not just a headline—it is a human tragedy that has left an indelible scar on her family, her community, and now the public conscience.

Her child, though too young to understand the loss, enters the world amidst immense sorrow—but also surrounded by a community that is rallying to provide love, support, and care.

As the justice system works to bring accountability to those responsible, Naomi’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved her and in the small but resilient life she brought into the world, even in her final moments.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or threats of violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org for confidential support.