While attempting to assist a patient, a firefighter paramedic was tragically stabbed in the heart

In addition to being a first responder, firefighter paramedic Graham Hoffman was a kind person, a leader both on and off the job, and a well-liked part of his community. He tragically died at the age of 29 while performing the work he loved most. Hoffman was fatally stabbed on Sunday, April 27, when he was carrying a patient.

Even though they frequently operate in extremely challenging situations, every fireman and paramedic deserves our highest respect and has the right to feel safe at work. One of those heroes who devoted his life to serving the underprivileged was 29-year-old Graham Hoffman, a paramedic and fireman in Kansas City.

Unfortunately, on April 27, he paid the ultimate price. Fellow firemen and emergency responders are grieving the loss of a committed, caring, and energetic person who was adored by everyone who knew him. The 29-year-old paramedic’s passing has rocked the first responder community.

In addition to being a paramedic, Graham Hoffman was a ray of hope who devoted his life to serving the underprivileged. He is remembered by his family, friends, and coworkers for his outstanding abilities, kind disposition, and unwavering dedication to his community.

According to KCFD Fire Chief Ross Grundyson, “he was a vibrant individual who loved life and loved serving his community.” He was a very good paramedic. He was extremely skilled and kind in his treatment of his patients.

On April 27, as Hoffman was delivering 38-year-old Shanetta Bossell to the hospital after she was discovered wandering on a state highway, he was fatally stabbed in the chest during a routine medical call. Hoffman was fatally wounded when Bossell allegedly assaulted him with a knife at around 1:25 a.m. during the transport.

Hoffman tried his hardest to rescue himself and his patient, but the stab wound proved deadly, and he passed away at North Kansas City Hospital. Officers saw Graham’s partner, the ambulance driver, run to the back of the car where a violent altercation had broken out between Shanetta Bossell and Graham Hoffman, according to court documents.

Officers swiftly stepped in as Bossell allegedly tried to take control of the ambulance and drive away. She allegedly bit one of the policemen on the arm during the altercation before being placed under restraint.

Ultimately, Bossell was caught and accused of armed criminal action and murder. CBS affiliate KCTV reports that she is presently being held on a $1 million bail. She might be sentenced to life in prison if found guilty.

The neighborhood is still in shock at Hoffman’s untimely demise. From 2022 to the present, Graham had served with the Kansas City Fire Department, responding to 3,500 to 4,000 service calls.

Mayor Quinton Lucas said he was devastated by the death of someone so young and promising. In a statement, Mayor Lucas said, “Graham was 29 years old, someone who had an extraordinary life ahead of him, and he died doing something that was so impactful and important to all of us, serving the community.” “I’m concentrating on grieving for his mother, father, sibling, family, and the entire KCFD family today.”

His coworkers, who recall Hoffman as a leader and role model, have also been profoundly impacted by his passing. Hoffman’s instructor and KCFD’s EMS Division Chief, Paul Paikowski, remarked on his experience working with him: He was among my favorite pupils. He was the perfect paramedic and firefighter.

You would assume that this man takes his work very seriously based on his appearance. It was amazing to watch him. He proved to be extraordinary. He was really wonderful in every way, and his friends and patients adored him,” Paikowski told KCTV5.

“He never received a complaint in three years; I never received a complaint on that man, ever,” he continued, describing Hoffman’s commitment. All I could hear was that he did a fantastic job. “I believe that the fact that he was truly murdered makes it more worse. That’s what irritates me the most,” his old teacher added.

Following the loss of one of their own, Hoffman’s coworkers at the Kansas City Fire Department have likewise conveyed their profound sadness. According to the Belton Fire Department in Missouri, where Hoffman started his career as a firefighter, “Graham quickly demonstrated his gentle, humorous, and kind nature.” A sincere soul with a wealth of possibilities. We offer our deepest sympathies and prayers to his family as well as the Kansas City Fire family, who are devastated.

According to the Kansas City Fire Department, “Graham was a committed professional who loved serving his city.” We will miss him terribly. Firefighter Graham Hoffman, may you rest in peace. The Kansas City Fire Department is paying a moving homage to Graham.

Every member will have a black band around their badges for the following thirty days. Additionally, as a sign of respect, the fire stations’ flags will fly at half-staff for the duration of the month.

Hoffman’s departure serves as a sobering reminder of the risks first responders encounter on a daily basis while protecting their communities, and the circumstances surrounding his death are still being investigated. Although Graham Hoffman’s life was brutally cut short, his legacy as a beloved coworker, a caring paramedic, and a loving son will endure.

The people of Kansas City are grieving, but they are also remembering a man who dedicated his life to serving others and never thought twice about risking his life to save others.

“We lost a true soul,” Paikowski remarked. He was quite serious about everything. He genuinely cared about both his patients and his peers. He was concerned about everything, including the department.

The family of this young man is in our prayers. You have a heavy place in my heart. Prayers and deepest sympathies to your family. Graham, rest in peace 🙏🏻