Marina
On April 27, 2025, Kansas City lost a dedicated public servant, Graham Hoffman, a 29-year-old firefighter-paramedic who was fatally stabbed while transporting a patient to the hospital.
Hoffman had served with the Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) since 2022 and was known for his compassion, dedication, and professionalism.
His untimely death has left a profound impact on the community and his colleagues.
Funeral Services and Community Tributes
Funeral services for Hoffman were held on May 2, 2025, at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty, Missouri. The schedule included:
- Visitation: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Celebration of Life: 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Procession: 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., passing by Station 42, Hoffman’s last assignment, before returning to White Chapel Funeral Home in Gladstone, Missouri.
The services were attended by family, friends, fellow first responders, and community members. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and KCFD Chief Ross Grundyson delivered heartfelt eulogies, highlighting Hoffman’s selfless service and the void his passing leaves in the community.
Incident Overview
Hoffman’s death occurred during a routine medical call when he was transporting Shanetta Bossell, 39, to the hospital.
While en route, Bossell allegedly produced a knife and stabbed Hoffman in the chest, piercing his heart. Despite immediate efforts to save him, Hoffman succumbed to his injuries.
Bossell has been charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, assault, and resisting arrest, and is being held on a $1 million bond.
Community Support and Memorials
In the wake of Hoffman’s passing, the Kansas City community has rallied to honor his memory:
- Fundraising Efforts: Over $300,000 has been raised through the sale of memorial T-shirts, with proceeds benefiting Hoffman’s family.
- Scholarship Fund: Local restaurants participated in a fundraising campaign on May 3, donating a portion of their sales to establish the Graham Hoffman Scholarship Fund, aimed at supporting future first responders.
- Tributes: Fire departments from across the region provided coverage to allow KCFD members to attend the funeral. Community members lined the procession route, paying their respects as Hoffman’s casket passed by.
Key Details of Graham Hoffman’s Service and Memorial
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Graham Jeffrey Hoffman |
| Age | 29 |
| Service | Kansas City Fire Department (2022–2025) |
| Date of Incident | April 27, 2025 |
| Funeral Date | May 2, 2025 |
| Final Assignment | Station 42 |
| Charges Against Suspect | First-degree murder, armed criminal action, assault, resisting arrest |
| Bond Amount | $1 million |
| Memorial Funds Raised | Over $300,000 |
| Scholarship Fund | Graham Hoffman Scholarship Fund |
The tragic loss of Graham Hoffman has deeply affected the Kansas City community. His commitment to public service and the circumstances of his death underscore the risks first responders face daily.
Through memorials, fundraisers, and continued support, the community ensures that Hoffman’s legacy of bravery and selflessness will not be forgotten.