A tragic incident unfolded in Missouri on Sunday when a firefighter paramedic was fatally stabbed while on duty, transporting a patient to the hospital. The victim, 29-year-old Graham Hoffman, was a Fire Medic with the Kansas City Fire Department. The city of Kansas City confirmed that Hoffman was stabbed in the chest by a patient he was transporting to the hospital following a routine medical call.
Following the stabbing, Hoffman’s partner initiated a crew emergency, prompting additional fire and police units to respond. Despite the swift response and the heroic efforts of his fellow paramedics and the medical staff at North Kansas City Hospital, Hoffman succumbed to his injuries in the intensive care unit.
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety expressed their grief over the incident, noting that Hoffman’s ambulance, usually a lifesaving tool, had tragically become a crime scene. They described the incident as an “unfathomable crime” and mourned the loss of Hoffman, who was allegedly killed by a patient he was treating.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas praised Hoffman for his selfless service, stating that his loss was particularly painful as he was killed while working to save lives. Lucas also highlighted the daily dangers faced by first responders and assured that accountability would be sought not only for the suspect but also for any system failures that may have contributed to the incident.
The city of Kansas City is mourning the loss of Hoffman, with many expressing their condolences to his family, friends, and the fire department. Interim City Manager Kimiko Gilmore described Hoffman as a brave public servant who dedicated his life to helping others, and whose courage, compassion, and commitment to the community would never be forgotten.
Hoffman, who joined the Kansas City Fire Department in 2022, was remembered by his department as a compassionate, caring, and dedicated professional who loved serving his city. He was also described as a leader both on and off the job.
The Clay County Prosecutor’s Office announced charges against 38-year-old Shanetta Bossell in connection with Hoffman’s death. Bossell is facing three felony charges, including first-degree murder, resisting/interfering with arrest for a felony, and third-degree assault. She is also charged with armed criminal action, and her bond is set at $1 million.
Bossell was previously arrested on April 23 for allegedly biting a Platte City police officer and was charged with assault and resisting arrest. Her bond for that case was set at $10,000, which was posted before Saturday.
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety expressed their struggle to comprehend the tragic incident, stating that Hoffman had committed his life to answering the alarm bell, regardless of the emergency or circumstances. He was remembered as a lifesaver.