A Kansas City Fire Department paramedic died Sunday after a stabbing while transporting a patient.
Graham Hoffman, 29, was stabbed while in the back of an ambulance. He served with the KCFD for three years.
Authorities charged Shanetta Bossell, 39, with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, third-degree assault on a special victim and resisting arrest in connection with Hoffman's death.
A public visitation and funeral service for Graham Hoffman took place Friday at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty, Missouri. A procession followed, passing Station 42 where Hoffman was assigned.
The community has organized efforts to support Hoffman's family and honor his service. A scholarship fund was created in his name.
Area restaurants partnered with a nonprofit supporting first responders to donate a portion of sales this weekend to the Graham Hoffman Firefighter Paramedic Scholarship Fund. Businesses participating include V's Italiano Ristorante, Em Chamas Brazilian Grill, Hawg Jaw Que & Brew, The Combine KC, Trezo Mare Restaurant, Pizza 51, Pierpont's at Union Station, and Grand Coffee.
Other fundraisers are ongoing, including a T-shirt sale that has raised more than $300,000 for his family.
The stabbing occurred after police responded to a welfare check for a woman walking in a roadway. The woman had a laceration and agreed to ambulance transport to a hospital.
Questions have surfaced regarding the suspect's status after recent charges and a welfare check before the incident. Officials have offered limited comment, citing the ongoing case.
A Kansas City Police spokesperson said the department follows legal standards regarding searches. Fire department officials said searching a person requires probable cause or detention; patients agreeing to transport are typically not searched unless they present as combative initially or the nature of the call changes.
The KCFD plans a review of the incident to determine if changes can enhance member safety.
