Florida Doctor Charged with Manslaughter After Liver Removal Error

Authorities say the physician mistakenly removed a patient's liver instead of his spleen, leading to the man's death.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:19am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of a shiny metal scalpel blade, the harsh lighting and dark background creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conceptually represents the serious consequences of a medical mistake.A medical instrument's sharp edge reflects the gravity of a fatal surgical error.Destin Today

A Florida doctor has been charged with second-degree manslaughter after a botched surgery in which he removed a Muscle Shoals, Alabama man's liver instead of his spleen, resulting in the patient's death in August 2024.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences that can arise from medical errors and the importance of accountability in the healthcare system. It also raises questions about oversight, training, and procedures to prevent such tragic mix-ups from occurring.

The details

According to authorities, the physician, whose name has not been released, performed the surgery on the unidentified Muscle Shoals man in August 2024. Instead of removing the patient's spleen as intended, the doctor mistakenly removed the man's liver, leading to his death.

  • The surgery took place in August 2024.
  • The doctor was arrested and charged with second-degree manslaughter on Monday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Florida Doctor

A physician who was arrested and charged with second-degree manslaughter for mistakenly removing a patient's liver instead of his spleen, leading to the patient's death.

Muscle Shoals Man

An unidentified patient from Muscle Shoals, Alabama who died after a Florida doctor removed his liver instead of his spleen during a surgery in August 2024.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge will determine whether the doctor will be allowed to remain free on bail as the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for heightened medical oversight, rigorous training protocols, and a culture of accountability in the healthcare industry to prevent such devastating errors from occurring.