Kansas City Patient Hijacked Ambulance, Killed Paramedic
Just after midnight on April 27, 2025, what started as a standard welfare check in Kansas City spiraled into a fatal confrontation that left 29-year-old firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman dead. The incident unfolded in the back of an ambulance — an unlikely setting for such violence — and has since sparked questions about safety, protocol, and whether this tragedy could have been prevented.
The Call That Changed Everything
The Kansas City Fire Department dispatched a crew shortly before 1 a.m. to investigate a report of a woman walking along the westbound lanes of 152 Highway.
Emergency responders reportedly found Shanetta Bossell, 39, with a bleeding hand. Officers at the scene noted she refused their offer to return home but agreed to be transported to a hospital via ambulance.
Hoffman rode in the back of the ambulance with Bossell, while his partner drove. At first, there was no indication of danger. But shortly into the transport, things changed drastically. According to court records reviewed by PEOPLE, the driver allegedly heard Hoffman yell, "She has a knife!" followed by "She stabbed me in the heart."
The ambulance pulled over as chaos erupted inside.
A Violent Struggle and Swift Response
As the ambulance came to a stop, Bossell allegedly attempted to hijack the vehicle, climbing into the front seat. Police arriving at the scene detained her after a brief scuffle. During her arrest, Bossell allegedly bit a police officer's arm before she was subdued.
Hoffman's partner, who was also injured but survived, called for immediate backup. First responders rushed Hoffman to North Kansas City Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Despite efforts in the ICU, he succumbed to his injuries later that afternoon.
A History of Violence and Unanswered Questions
Just days before Hoffman's death, Bossell was released on bond after allegedly assaulting an off-duty police officer in a separate incident.
Officials have refrained from commenting on those details, citing the ongoing investigation. She has reportedly been charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, third-degree assault of a special victim, and resisting arrest. She pleaded not guilty and is awaiting a bond hearing.
The Man Behind the Badge
Graham Hoffman had been with the Kansas City Fire Department since 2022. Though typically stationed at Firehouse 42, he was working overtime that morning. At just 29, colleagues described him as a skilled and compassionate paramedic who loved his work and community.
In a statement reported by My Fox 8, KCFD Chief Ross Grundyson said, "The Kansas City Fire Department grieves with Graham's family, friends, and loved ones. This is a senseless act that has taken a great young man from his family, friends, and coworkers, and deprived our city of a dedicated firefighter, and a leader on and off the job who only wanted to serve and protect those in his community."
Calls for Change
The fire department is now reviewing protocols to determine whether changes are needed to better protect personnel in situations that, on the surface, seem routine. According to officials, standard procedure for non-combative patients — especially those not under arrest — does not involve a search.
A Community in Mourning
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas offered condolences and promised the city would support Hoffman's family and colleagues. According to My Fox 8, "I'm focused on grieving for his mother, father, his siblings, his family, and everyone in the KCFD family. We know that we will stand with them not just today, but well into the future."
Funeral services for Hoffman were held at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty, Missouri. Hundreds reportedly gathered to remember the man whose life was cut short during an act of service.
As investigations continue and city departments reflect on what happened, one truth remains clear — the risks first responders face are real, even in the most unexpected moments.
References: Firefighter-paramedic dies after being stabbed in ambulance | She Allegedly Stabbed a Paramedic in the Back of an Ambulance. Now She's Charged with His Murder | Officials mum as questions linger in Kansas City paramedic's violent death | Kansas City honors fallen paramedic Graham Hoffman with funeral and procession
