A 19-year-old from Kansas has received a 74-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to the murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Naomi Oglesby, who was killed in May 2025. The case has raised significant concerns about domestic violence and its devastating consequences.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/naomi-oglesby2-91625-4b906221bfe74bb0803a68caa6e69ae7.jpg)
Naomi Oglesby, a 20-year-old, was nine months pregnant when she was fatally shot by Matthew Criscenzo. This tragic incident occurred as the couple reportedly faced turmoil in their relationship. Following the shooting, Oglesby was rushed to a hospital where medical professionals were able to successfully deliver her baby. Unfortunately, the newborn was found to have severe brain damage due to a lack of oxygen and required intubation, suffering multiple seizures as a result of her condition.
Criscenzo’s plea of guilty, entered in January 2026, included charges of first-degree murder and aggravated battery. The court proceedings culminated in his sentencing by Judge Jeff Goering on April 21, 2026. Throughout the process, Criscenzo expressed disbelief at his actions, reportedly stating to police, “I can’t believe I shot her” and “I just didn’t want her to go and thought she was going to leave me.”
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Goering made a poignant observation regarding the circumstances leading to the tragedy. He noted that had Criscenzo allowed Oglesby to leave their home, the unfortunate events might have been avoided. The judge’s comments highlighted the theme of regret and the unnecessary loss of life that often accompanies domestic disputes.
The aftermath of the shooting has left a profound impact on Oglesby’s family, particularly her sister, Ashley Stewart. Stewart articulated the depth of the family’s grief, stating, “He not only took my sister’s life at the young age of 20, but he also permanently altered Zy’nia’s life,” referring to the newborn daughter. Stewart expressed concerns about the future, indicating that Oglesby’s baby would face significant challenges as she grows up.
The legal proceedings have shone a light on the broader issues of domestic violence, particularly in young relationships. Advocates argue that greater awareness and intervention strategies are essential to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. Oglesby’s case serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of unresolved conflict and the importance of support systems for individuals in vulnerable situations.
As this case concludes in the courtroom, both the community and Oglesby’s family are left to grapple with their loss and the enduring impact it has had on their lives. While Criscenzo will spend the next 74 years behind bars, the pain of the irreplaceable loss felt by Oglesby’s family and the hurdles faced by the baby remain indelible.
This incident not only illustrates the immediate devastating effects of domestic violence on individuals involved but also highlights the far-reaching implications for the next generation. As Oglesby’s relatives seek to navigate life without her, they continue to advocate for awareness and change in the community to help prevent similar instances in the future.
The case has prompted local advocates to speak out on the importance of addressing domestic abuse and ensuring that victims have the resources they need to escape dangerous situations. They stress the need for comprehensive support systems for young individuals who may find themselves entangled in toxic relationships, enabling them to seek help before it is too late.