In the early hours of May 25, 2025, the life of 20-year-old Naomi Oglesby, a Black/African American female from Wichita, Kansas, was tragically cut short. At approximately 4:28 a.m., police responded to a shooting in the 700 block of South Laura. Upon arrival, they discovered Oglesby suffering from a gunshot wound. She was rushed to a local hospital, but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after 5:00 a.m. At the time of her death, Oglesby was 37 weeks pregnant.
In a bittersweet turn of events, medical professionals were able to deliver her baby girl, who was then admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
The incident occurred at the home of the father of 19-year-old Matthew Criscenzo, who was identified as the suspect and was known to Oglesby. According to family, Oglesby and Criscenzo had been in a tumultuous, on-and-off relationship. On the night of the shooting, Oglesby had her belongings packed and was intending to leave. An argument reportedly ensued, which tragically escalated. Criscenzo's father called 911 after hearing a "pop." Criscenzo was found at the scene and taken into custody.
Matthew Criscenzo was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Naomi Oglesby's death. He was booked into the Sedgwick County jail. Court documents revealed that Criscenzo allegedly made statements to police such as "I can't believe I shot her," and expressed that he didn't want her to leave him. Family members of Oglesby described her as a joyful person who always looked on the bright side of things and was excited about becoming a mother again, having previously lost an infant daughter. She was reportedly studying to become a certified nursing assistant. The newborn, named Zy'nia Rayne Oglesby, suffered from a severe brain injury due to lack of oxygen following her mother's death.
