Honoring a Hero: Paramedic Graham Hoffman Tragically Killed While Saving Others
Graham Hoffman wasn’t just a firefighter paramedic—he was a bright light in every room, a natural leader, and a deeply compassionate soul devoted to serving his community.
At just 29 years old, Graham’s life was heartbreakingly cut short while doing what he loved most: helping others. On Sunday, April 27, during a routine patient transport, Graham was fatally stabbed in the line of duty.
This devastating loss has sent shockwaves through the Kansas City community and first responders nationwide. Hoffman was a man who embodied the very spirit of service—always there when others were in crisis, always ready to give his all.
“An excellent paramedic and a vibrant soul”
“Graham was a vibrant individual who loved life and loved serving his community,” said KCFD Fire Chief Ross Grundyson. “He was an excellent paramedic. He treated his patients with the highest level of skill and compassion.”
Colleagues and friends remember him not only for his professional excellence, but for his kindness, warmth, and unwavering dedication. He was more than a responder—he was a healer, a friend, and a beacon of hope in times of darkness.
Every firefighter and paramedic deserves to feel safe while answering the call to serve. Graham Hoffman made the ultimate sacrifice, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.
A Life Cut Short: The Tragic Final Call of Paramedic Graham Hoffman
Graham Hoffman’s deep commitment to saving lives came to a heartbreaking end in the early hours of Sunday, April 27. During what began as a routine medical call, the 29-year-old firefighter paramedic was fatally stabbed in the chest by 38-year-old Shanetta Bossell—a patient he was compassionately transporting to the hospital after she was found walking along a state highway.
At approximately 1:25 a.m., while en route, Bossell allegedly launched a sudden and violent attack, fatally wounding Hoffman with a knife. Despite his training, courage, and resolve, the injuries proved fatal. He was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at North Kansas City Hospital.
A Violent Struggle in the Line of Duty
According to court records, Graham’s partner—who was driving the ambulance—rushed to the back after noticing a commotion. There, he discovered a brutal struggle underway between Hoffman and Bossell. As the partner tried to intervene, Bossell allegedly attempted to hijack the ambulance. Officers at the scene were quick to respond, preventing her escape.
During the confrontation, Bossell reportedly bit one of the officers on the arm before being subdued and taken into custody. She now faces charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action, and is being held on a $1 million bond. If convicted, she could spend the rest of her life in prison.
A Beloved Colleague, A Devoted Public Servant
The shocking nature of Hoffman’s death has left a deep wound in Kansas City and among emergency responders across the country. Since joining the Kansas City Fire Department in 2022, Graham had answered an estimated 3,500 to 4,000 emergency calls—each one a reflection of his unwavering commitment to those in need.
Mayor Quinton Lucas offered heartfelt condolences, reflecting the sorrow felt by the entire community:
“Graham was just 29 years old, someone with an exceptional life ahead of him. He died doing something deeply meaningful—serving others,” the mayor said. “Today, my heart is with his mother, his father, his sibling, and his entire KCFD family.”
A Legacy of Courage and Compassion
Graham Hoffman wasn’t just a rising star in his department—he was a favorite student, a cherished friend, and a trusted teammate. His loss is more than tragic; it is a stark reminder of the risks first responders take every day, even during the most routine calls.
His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and in the service of every responder who follows in his footsteps.
A Community in Mourning: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Firefighter-Paramedic Graham Hoffman
The passing of Graham Hoffman has left a profound void—not just within the Kansas City Fire Department, but across the entire first responder community. To his colleagues, he wasn’t just a skilled paramedic—he was a role model, a leader, and a genuinely extraordinary human being.
“He was one of my favorite students.”
Paul Paikowski, EMS Division Chief at KCFD and one of Hoffman’s instructors, spoke with deep admiration about the young firefighter’s dedication and character:
“He was the ideal firefighter and paramedic. From his appearance, you’d immediately know he took his job seriously. He was incredible to watch, and he turned out to be phenomenal. Patients loved him, peers loved him—he was just amazing in every way.”
Paikowski added that in Hoffman’s three years of service, not a single complaint was ever filed against him—only praise.
“All I heard was what a good job he did, and that’s amazing. What makes it even more devastating is that he was murdered. That’s what really, really upsets me.”
“A kind, soft-spoken soul”
Before joining KCFD, Graham began his career at the Belton Fire Department in Missouri, where his gentle nature and quiet wit quickly stood out.
“Graham did not take long to show his kind, soft-spoken, and witty personality. A genuine soul filled with tons of potential,” the Belton Fire Department shared in a statement. “We are heartbroken for his family and the Kansas City Fire family and send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to them.”
The Kansas City Fire Department echoed this sorrow:
“Graham was a dedicated professional who loved serving his city. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Firefighter Graham Hoffman.”
A City Remembers
As a tribute to Graham’s service and sacrifice, the Kansas City Fire Department will honor him over the next 30 days by wearing black mourning bands across their badges. Flags at all city fire stations will be flown at half-staff throughout the month, a solemn gesture of remembrance for a life taken too soon.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though the investigation into the tragic circumstances of his death continues, one thing is clear: Graham Hoffman will never be forgotten. He was more than a firefighter and paramedic—he was a loving son, a trusted colleague, and a beacon of compassion.
“We lost a genuine soul,” said Paikowski. “He took everything so seriously. He really cared about his peers, his patients, and the department. He cared about everything.”
Graham’s life was a testament to selflessness and service. His legacy will live on in every life he touched, in every call he answered, and in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Prayers and Condolences
My heart is heavy with sorrow for the loss of such a courageous young man.
Sincere condolences and continued prayers for Graham Hoffman’s family, friends, and the entire Kansas City Fire Department.
May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you during this unimaginable time.
Rest in peace, Graham. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. 🙏🏻