A tragic incident unfolded in Missouri on Sunday when a Kansas City firefighter paramedic lost his life while responding to a medical call.
Graham Hoffman, 29, a Fire Medic with the Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD), succumbed to injuries sustained after being reportedly stabbed during transport of a patient to the hospital. According to city officials, the incident occurred following what was initially described as a routine response coordinated by police.
Following the attack, Hoffman’s partner immediately declared a crew emergency, prompting an influx of additional fire and law enforcement personnel to the scene. Despite rapid transport to North Kansas City Hospital and dedicated efforts from KCFD paramedics, Emergency Room staff, and surgical teams, Hoffman tragically passed away in the Intensive Care Unit.
“His KCFD ambulance, typically a vital instrument for saving lives, was transformed into a crime scene,” stated the Missouri Division of Fire Safety. “And Graham Hoffman became the victim of an unimaginable act – allegedly murdered by the very patient he was striving to help.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas lauded Hoffman’s actions as embodying “the finest qualities” of the city, highlighting his “selfless service.” He expressed profound sorrow, stating, “The fact that he was taken from us while working to preserve lives amplifies this loss. This senseless act serves as a stark reminder of the daily perils faced by our first responders.” The suspect remains in custody, and authorities are collaborating with the Clay County Prosecutor’s Office on formal charges.
Mayor Lucas further emphasized the need for accountability, not only directed at the perpetrator but also towards identifying any systemic shortcomings. He extended condolences to Hoffman’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters, urging residents to offer their support through prayer.
Interim City Manager Kimiko Gilmore echoed these sentiments in a statement conveying profound sorrow over the “unimaginable loss.” She described Hoffman as “a brave public servant who dedicated his life to helping others,” adding that his “courage, compassion, and commitment to our community will never be forgotten.”
The KCFD characterized Hoffman, who joined their ranks in 2022, as “compassionate, caring, loving, and a leader both on and off the job,” emphasizing his dedication to serving Kansas City.
Shanetta Bossell, 38, has been formally charged by the Clay County Prosecutor’s Office with three felony counts: first-degree murder, resisting/interfering with arrest for a felony, and third-degree assault. She also faces charges of armed criminal action, with bail set at $1 million.
Records indicate Bossell was previously arrested on April 23rd for allegedly biting a Platte City police officer, facing charges of assault and resisting arrest in that instance. A judge had initially set her bond at $10,000, which was reportedly posted prior to Saturday.
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety conveyed the profound grief felt within the organization, acknowledging Hoffman’s unwavering commitment to responding to emergencies “regardless of the circumstances.” They concluded by honoring his legacy as “a lifesaver.”
