Kansas City, Missouri, September 9, 2025

News Summary

Kansas City Fire Chief Ross Grundyson has announced his retirement effective January 2026 after over 30 years with the department. His tenure has been marred by the deaths of two firefighters in the line of duty and various legal challenges, including significant lawsuits relating to discrimination and harassment. Grundyson’s departure raises questions about the future of the Kansas City Fire Department amid ongoing issues.

Kansas City Fire Chief Ross Grundyson Announces Upcoming Retirement Amidst Controversial Tenure Marked by Deaths and Legal Issues

Kansas City Fire Chief Ross Grundyson has announced his retirement, effective January 2026, in an email sent to the Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD). This decision has been communicated to City Manager Mario Vasquez and the union leadership, with Grundyson expressing that serving as Fire Chief has been one of the greatest honors of his career. Having dedicated 30 years to the KCFD, Grundyson’s tenure has been overshadowed by multiple tragedies and legal challenges.

During Grundyson’s time as chief, two firefighters have tragically lost their lives while on duty. In April 2025, firefighter paramedic Graham Hoffman, aged 29, was fatally stabbed while responding to a medical emergency in an ambulance. Earlier, in September 2024, 33-year-old firefighter Kyle Brinker drowned during a training exercise, with the autopsy indicating drowning followed by cardiac arrest as the cause. In light of these incidents, KCFD is currently collaborating with local unions to enhance safety protocols and is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Hoffman’s death.

Grundyson’s leadership has also faced scrutiny due to numerous legal issues. Since he took office, KCFD has dealt with several lawsuits related to claims of discrimination, retaliation, and harassment. A particularly high-profile case resulted in a significant settlement of $1.3 million for a firefighter and paramedic who alleged mistreatment based on gender and sexual orientation. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Laura Ragusa, the department’s highest-ranking female officer, has a pending lawsuit against the city that includes allegations of discrimination, allegedly involving Grundyson. Ragusa has expressed concerns about not being interviewed for the Fire Chief position after applying three times during Grundyson’s tenure.

Moreover, Deputy Chief James Dean has threatened legal action to secure a fair opportunity for the Chief position. In an additional legal incident, firefighter Dominic Biscari faced charges of involuntary manslaughter regarding a crash that resulted in three fatalities. After pleading guilty, Biscari was sentenced to three years of probation and community service but has since faced attempts at termination from his position, despite an arbitrator ruling against the city’s efforts, imposing only a minimal suspension.

Overall, under Grundyson’s leadership, the KCFD has reportedly paid out around $3.6 million in settlement claims related to lawsuits. While Grundyson has acknowledged the department’s difficulties, he expressed profound gratitude for the commitment and resilience shown by KCFD personnel throughout these challenging times. He will also play a role in selecting his successor as Fire Chief, who will have the task of navigating the ongoing issues within the department.

Grundyson’s legacy is one marked by both service and tragedy. As he prepares to step down, questions arise about the future direction of the KCFD and how it will address the systemic issues highlighted during his administration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Key Features of the Article

• Retirement Date: January 2026
• Tenure Duration: Over 30 years
• Fatalities: 2 firefighters
• Legal Settlements: $3.6 million
• Pending Lawsuits: Involving Deputy Chief Laura Ragusa
• Future Actions: Grundyson to assist in selecting a successor

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HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

• Kansas City News
• Wikipedia: Fire Department
• FireRescue1
• Google Search: Firefighter Training
• Fox 4 Kansas City
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighter
• KCTV5
• Google News: Kansas City Fire Department
• KSHB
• Google Scholar: Kansas City Fire Department
• Firehouse.com

Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER

The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.