Kansas: A tragic domestic violence case in Sedgwick County, Kansas, has ended with a decades-long prison sentence for a 20-year-old man who shot his pregnant girlfriend, leading to her death and leaving their newborn daughter with life-altering medical conditions.
According to court proceedings and statements from the Sedgwick County District Court, the incident took place in May 2024 at a residence on South Laura Avenue. Prosecutors said the accused, Matthew Criscenzo, shot his 20-year-old girlfriend Naomi Oglesby during an argument inside his father’s home.
What Happened
Investigators revealed that the argument escalated after Oglesby reportedly took away Criscenzo’s gaming controller and told him she was leaving. In response, he pointed a firearm at her. During the confrontation, the gun discharged, striking Oglesby in the head.
Criscenzo later told investigators he “didn’t want her to leave” and believed she was going to end the relationship. Moments after the shooting, his father—who was inside the home—heard the gunshot and found Oglesby critically injured on the floor while Criscenzo stood nearby holding the weapon.
Emergency responders rushed Oglesby to the hospital. She was 37 weeks pregnant at the time.
Baby Survives With Severe Injuries
Doctors performed an emergency C-section in an attempt to save the baby. While the child survived, medical officials confirmed she suffered severe brain damage due to oxygen deprivation. She now faces serious long-term health challenges, including cerebral palsy and difficulty swallowing.
Oglesby was pronounced dead shortly after the delivery.
During sentencing, emotional statements from the child’s caregivers highlighted the devastating impact. The girl’s foster mother shared that the child may never be able to eat normally or experience milestones like other children.
Court Verdict and Sentence
In February, Criscenzo was found guilty of multiple charges, including:
- Premeditated first-degree murder
- Felony murder
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated battery
At sentencing, District Judge Jeff Goering imposed a total sentence of 74 years in prison, rejecting requests for leniency.
The judge emphasized that the tragedy could have been avoided, stating that the situation escalated simply because the victim attempted to leave.
Prosecutors described the act as a severe case of control and violence, noting that prior incidents suggested a pattern of abusive behavior. Witnesses had earlier reported threats and physical assault in the relationship.
Statements and Investigation Findings
Following the shooting, Criscenzo made several spontaneous statements to responding officers, expressing shock and regret over his actions. However, investigators and prosecutors maintained that the evidence supported a deliberate and dangerous escalation of violence.
Authorities confirmed that law enforcement, medical teams, and prosecutors worked together throughout the investigation and trial process.
A Life-Altering Tragedy
Family members of the victim said the crime has permanently changed multiple lives. While one life was lost, another now faces a lifetime of medical challenges.
Officials reiterated that domestic violence situations can escalate quickly and urged individuals to seek help when facing threatening or controlling relationships.
The case stands as a stark reminder of how moments of anger and control can lead to irreversible consequences.
