Tragic Killing of Kansas City Firefighter-Paramedic: A Devastating Loss in Service
Missouri firefighter paramedic dead after being stabbed in ambulance by patient: ‘Unfathomable crime’ https://t.co/2SruVWTLoC pic.twitter.com/ysMgvUKpwV
— New York Post (@nypost) April 28, 2025
On April 27, 2025, Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman, 29, was fatally stabbed while performing his duty, a shocking act that has left the community stunned. Hoffman, who joined the KCFD in 2022 after serving with the Belton Fire Department, was killed in an ambulance by a patient he was aiding—a stark reminder of the unforeseen dangers first responders face.
At approximately 1:25 a.m., Hoffman and his partner were transporting Shanetta P. Bossell, 38, to Saint Luke’s Hospital for a finger laceration when she allegedly stabbed him in the chest, striking his heart. His partner issued an emergency call, and despite valiant efforts by KCFD paramedics and staff at North Kansas City Hospital, Hoffman passed away in the ICU. The knife was recovered from the ambulance.
Bossell, a Kansas City resident, faces charges of first-degree murder, armed criminal action, third-degree assault, and resisting arrest, with a $1 million bond. Her recent history raises serious concerns: on April 23, 2025, she was arrested for assaulting a Platte City police officer, attempting to grab his knife, biting him, and resisting arrest. Released on bond by April 25, she also had a March 31 citation for a hit-and-run. On April 27, she resisted arrest, bit another officer, and attempted to drive the ambulance, prompting the Clay County Prosecutor’s Office to label her a public danger.
Graham Hoffman was murdered while transporting a patient to the hospital. His patient stabbed him and he died from his injuries. This is unacceptable and a tragedy. Graham was a good guy, a good firefighter, and a good medic. First responders should never be in this situation.… pic.twitter.com/DnWC3fJkCo
— Ryan Costanza 🦅 (@therealstanzy) April 27, 2025
Data on such incidents is limited. A 2018 Prehospital Emergency Care study found 20% of EMS providers experience physical violence, but fatal stabbings are exceptionally rare. The U.S. Fire Administration reported no stabbing-related firefighter deaths in 2024, highlighting the extraordinary nature of this tragedy.
Hoffman’s death underscores the risks inherent in public service. The betrayal of a first responder dedicated to helping others is profoundly troubling, spurring calls for justice and greater protections for those who serve.