In a shocking and tragic incident, Kansas City authorities have charged Shanetta Bossell with first-degree murder following the fatal stabbing of firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman. The attack happened during a routine ambulance transport on Sunday, April 27, 2025, turning a standard medical call into a deadly encounter.
Fire Medic Graham Hoffman, 29, was on duty with the Kansas City Fire Department when the unthinkable happened. Bossell, 38, was reportedly walking along Missouri 152 Highway when witnesses called in a welfare check.
After Hoffman and other emergency first-responders arrived, Bossell agreed to ride in the ambulance to the hospital, but during the trip, Bossell allegedly stabbed Hoffman in the chest, causing critical injuries.
Despite immediate emergency intervention by his partner and extensive efforts by North Kansas City Hospital staff, Hoffman succumbed to his wounds.
An “unfathomable” crime
At this time, the suspect, identified as Shanetta Bossell, is being charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, assault, resisting arrest and is being held on a $1 million bond. https://t.co/V8BTE9J3qz pic.twitter.com/eFbClm7saq
— FOX4 News Kansas City (@fox4kc) April 28, 2025
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety described the event as an “unfathomable crime” and emphasized Hoffman’s dedication to his role as a lifesaver, according to Kansas City news outlet KSHB.
The Clay County Prosecutor’s Office has charged Bossell with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, armed criminal action, resisting and interfering with arrest for a felony, and third-degree assault. The judge set her bond at $1 million.
This is not Bossell’s first encounter with law enforcement; police arrested her earlier in April for allegedly biting a Platte City police officer. Authorities charged her with assault and resisting arrest in that case
The Kansas City community is mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant. Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed his condolences, stating, “That he was taken from us while working to save lives makes this loss all the more painful.” He emphasized the dangers first responders face daily and called for accountability in the case.
Hoffman was “compassionate, caring, loving”
Interim City Manager Kimiko Gilmore also shared her condolences, highlighting Hoffman’s courage, compassion, and commitment to the community. The Kansas City Fire Department described Hoffman as a “compassionate, caring, loving.”
This tragic incident underscores the risks faced by first responders and has sparked discussions about the safety measures in place for emergency personnel. The community is calling for a thorough review of protocols to ensure the safety of those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
Published: Apr 28, 2025 01:48 pm