Netizens have weighed in on the fatal stabbing of a paramedic, who was honored with heartfelt tributes by the Kansas City Fire Department and a friend.
Kansas City is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Firefighter Paramedic Graham Hoffman, who tragically passed away following a critical injury sustained during a medical emergency early Sunday morning, April 27, 2025. He was 29 years old.
@dailymail A Missouri firefighter-paramedic, Graham Hoffman, 29, was stabbed in the chest on Sunday by the very person he was trying to transport. After picking up Shanetta Bossell, 38, patient-turned-attacker, in what seemed like an ordinarily medical call, Hoffman would soon be fighting for his life in what was declared a 'crew emergency.' Hoffman was rushed into North Kansas City Hospital's ICU where he later died due to the knife piercing his heart. Interim City Manager Kimiko Gilmore said in a statement: 'We mourn the loss of Firefighter Paramedic Graham Hoffman, a brave public servant who dedicated his life to helping others. His courage, compassion, and commitment to our community will never be forgotten.' 📷 Kansas City Fire Department / Clay County Sheriff's Office / Belton Fire Department / KCTV5/Grace Smith #kansascity #emergency #crime #news ♬ Bad News – Atomica Music
While transporting a patient to a local hospital on what began as a routine call from law enforcement, Hoffman was stabbed in the chest, fatally wounding his heart.
His partner swiftly called for an emergency response, prompting additional Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) and Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) units to rush to the scene.
Graham Hoffman, a 29yo firefighter-paramedic from Kansas City, was murdered on Sunday during a medical call.
He was stabbed through the heart by Shanetta Bossell, a violent repeat offender released on bond just two days earlier despite being flagged as a danger to the community. pic.twitter.com/PIexwJvWwn
— Francesco™️ (@frandalorian) April 29, 2025
Despite heroic efforts by his fellow firefighters, paramedics, and the medical team at North Kansas City Hospital, Hoffman succumbed to his injuries in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after undergoing emergency surgery.
He had been a proud member of the KCFD since 2022 and was known for his courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving the community.
Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “I am heartbroken by the passing of Firefighter Paramedic Graham Hoffman. After praying for his recovery this morning with his family and colleagues, I join all Kansas Citians in mourning the loss of a heroic public servant.”
The mayor emphasized the city’s support for Hoffman’s family, friends, and fellow KCFD members, acknowledging that while words cannot erase their grief, Kansas City stands united in their sorrow.
He also condemned the senseless act that led to Hoffman’s death and confirmed that the suspect, Shanetta Bossell, is currently in custody. Her charges span first-degree murder and assaulting an officer.
“We will demand accountability be applied not just to the suspect, but also for any steps in the system that fell short [sic],” added Mayor Lucas.
Interim City Manager Kimiko Gilmore also offered heartfelt condolences, stating, “Today, we mourn the loss of Firefighter Paramedic Graham Hoffman, a brave public servant who dedicated his life to helping others. His courage, compassion, and commitment to our community will never be forgotten.”
KCFD has requested privacy for Hoffman’s family during this difficult time. The department is also providing grief counseling services for its members.
Additionally, officials thanked the staff at North Kansas City Hospital and the KCPD for their efforts and support throughout the ordeal. Further details are expected to be shared in the coming days.
Upon learning about what is known thus far regarding the tragedy, netizens flocked to social media to react to the news. “as [sic] an EMS provider, this is why it’s important to make sure our patients don’t have weapons before coming in the ambulance,” remarked someone on TikTok.
There are now flowers outside Fire Station 42 to honor fallen @KCMOFireDept FF/Paramedic Graham Hoffman. Police say he died Sunday after a patient stabbed him in an ambulance. @KSHB41 pic.twitter.com/778Pbe0zLf
— Charlie Keegan (@CharlieKeegan41) April 28, 2025
Another penned, “GRAHAM HOFFMAN!!! WE will never forget you. We demand justice!!! I’m so sorry this happened to him. 🥺.”
Adding to the online discussion, someone else expressed, “This is so wrong. How did this even happen? Was she not frisked before being put in the ambulance? Oh [sic] my heart goes out to his family. To have lost someone so young in such an evil way. Prayers.”
“this [sic] is why I think paramedics need as much protection as police officers,” opined a fellow spectator. Aside from netizens commenting on Hoffman’s tragic demise, online tributes have ensued in his honor.
One special dedication comes from the KCFD. The organization shared a poignant image of the late 29-year-old, capturing a softer, deeply human side of the fallen hero.
Sitting beside a golden retriever in front of a fire truck emblazoned with “Kansas City,” Hoffman is seen sharing a warm moment with the pup.
Alongside the image, the KCFD shared a heartfelt message describing Hoffman as “compassionate, caring, loving, and a leader on and off the job.” These words, offered by his fellow firefighters and academy classmates, paint a picture of a man who was more than just a dedicated professional — he was a source of strength and kindness within the department and beyond.
The KCFD, still reeling from the loss, assured the public that funeral details will be shared in the coming days. “He will be greatly missed […] Rest in peace Firefighter [sic] Graham Hoffman,” the message ended. Aside from the KCFD, Hoffman’s friends are sharing glimpses of the joy he brought into their lives.
One especially moving tribute comes from his friend Kaydrie Groenke, who posted a collage of throwback images and videos that speak volumes about the kind of person he was — full of life, humor, and unforgettable energy. The collection features moments from what appear to be carefree college days — group gatherings, lighthearted banter, laughter, and snapshots that radiate youthful fun.
“I can’t even wrap my head around this news,” Groenke wrote in her tribute. “One of the best people I had the honor of crossing paths with in this lifetime. You will be missed by so so many. Rest easy my friend [sic].”
She added that she keeps stumbling across more pictures and videos, each one a memory of “so many laughs and fun times.”
Though his death leaves an irreplaceable void, memories like these are ensuring that Hoffman’s spirit continues to shine through the lives he touched.
At this time, we would like to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Hoffman’s family, colleagues, friends, and all his loved ones as they mourn such a significant loss. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief.
