A devastating incident early Sunday morning claimed the life of 29-year-old Kansas City firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman. Authorities reported that Hoffman was fatally stabbed by 38-year-old Shanetta Bossell during an ambulance transport.
The Clay County Prosecutor’s Office announced that Bossell faces charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action. She is currently held on a $1 million bond.
According to police, just after 12:30 a.m., officers encountered Bossell walking dangerously close to Highway 152 and North Oak Trafficway. EMS was summoned, and Hoffman was among those who responded. During the transport to Saint Luke’s Hospital around 1:25 a.m., Bossell allegedly stabbed Hoffman in the ambulance. The ambulance immediately stopped along Highway 152 near Platte Purchase Road, where officers arrested Bossell and recovered a knife.
Hoffman was rushed to North Kansas City Hospital’s ICU but tragically succumbed to his injuries. Medical reports confirmed that the wound pierced his heart. Hoffman had served with the Kansas City Fire Department since 2022.
KCFD Fire Chief Ross Grundyson described Hoffman as “a vibrant individual who loved life and serving his community.” Mayor Quinton Lucas also expressed condolences, calling the event “heartbreaking” and emphasizing the urgent need to protect first responders.
Bossell had been arrested days earlier for allegedly assaulting a Platte City police officer but was released on bond prior to the fatal stabbing. Funeral arrangements for Hoffman are being finalized, and KCFD is providing grief counseling for affected personnel.
City officials have pledged to review first responder safety protocols in response to this tragic loss.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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