Kansas City Firefighter-Paramedic Graham Hoffman Fatally Stabbed by Patient During Ambulance Transport; City Mourns Loss
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Kansas City firefighter-paramedic has tragically lost his life after being violently attacked by a patient during a routine medical transport early Sunday morning, city officials confirmed.
The victim, identified as Firefighter-Paramedic Graham Hoffman, 29, sustained critical injuries around 1:00 a.m. while transporting a patient to Saint Luke’s Hospital located on Barry Road. Authorities say that during the ambulance ride, the patient unexpectedly became combative and fatally stabbed Hoffman.
Additional emergency personnel from the Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) and the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) responded immediately to the scene. Despite rapid intervention and valiant life-saving efforts by first responders and trauma teams at North Kansas City Hospital, Hoffman was pronounced dead.
A Rising Star in Public Service
Hoffman had served with the Kansas City Fire Department since 2022, and within a short period, had become widely respected for his dedication, skill, and compassionate service to the community.
“Graham was the kind of firefighter and paramedic who exemplified what it means to serve others selflessly,” said Fire Chief Ross Grundyson. “His kindness, bravery, and commitment to protecting life made an indelible impact on those he worked alongside and those he cared for.”
Investigation and Suspect in Custody
Officials confirmed that the suspect—the patient involved in the stabbing—was immediately taken into custody by the Kansas City Police Department. Authorities have not yet publicly released the suspect’s identity or detailed the circumstances that led to the violent outburst inside the ambulance.
The investigation into the incident remains active, with detectives working closely with the Fire Department to piece together the timeline and factors leading to the attack.
Officials have not indicated if or when charges will be formally announced.
City Leaders React with Shock and Grief
News of Hoffman’s death sent shockwaves through the Kansas City community. City officials, including Mayor Quinton Lucas, Fire Chief Ross Grundyson, and Interim City Manager Kimiko Gilmore, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss.
A press conference has been scheduled for 4:00 p.m. Sunday, where officials are expected to share further updates regarding the investigation and pay tribute to Hoffman’s service and sacrifice.
In an early morning statement, Mayor Lucas said:
“Today, we mourn the loss of one of our city’s bravest. Firefighter-Paramedic Graham Hoffman gave his life in the service of others. Kansas City stands with his family, his colleagues, and the entire Kansas City Fire Department as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.”
Community in Mourning
The death of Graham Hoffman has left a deep void among Kansas City’s firefighting and first responder community, who are often the first line of protection for residents in times of need.
The City of Kansas City released an official statement offering its “deepest condolences to Firefighter-Paramedic Hoffman’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this time of profound loss.”
Plans for a public memorial service and a line-of-duty death funeral are expected to be announced in the coming days.
An Unthinkable Tragedy
Firefighter deaths during routine medical calls are exceedingly rare, and Hoffman’s passing highlights the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous realities faced daily by paramedics and first responders.
As Kansas City mourns the loss of one of its own, flags across municipal buildings are expected to be lowered to half-staff in Hoffman’s honor, symbolizing a city unified in grief and gratitude for his ultimate sacrifice.
Further information will be provided at Sunday afternoon’s press conference, as the city continues to grapple with this devastating loss.