Walton County Doctor Charged with Manslaughter After Patient's Death

Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky accused of removing patient's liver instead of spleen, leading to death

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:55pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a medical instrument, such as a scalpel or clamp, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A medical instrument used in a fatal surgery becomes the focus of a criminal investigation into alleged malpractice.Miramar Today

A grand jury in Walton County, Florida has indicted Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky on second-degree manslaughter charges following the death of a 70-year-old patient during a scheduled laparoscopic splenectomy procedure in August 2024. Authorities allege that Shaknovsky removed the patient's liver instead of the spleen, resulting in catastrophic blood loss and the patient's death on the operating table.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences that can arise from medical malpractice, even during routine procedures. It also raises questions about oversight and accountability within the medical profession, as well as the challenges patients and families face in seeking justice after a preventable tragedy.

The details

According to the State Attorney's Office, Dr. Shaknovsky was performing a scheduled laparoscopic splenectomy on a 70-year-old man from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. However, Shaknovsky allegedly removed the man's liver instead of his spleen, leading to severe blood loss and the patient's death on the operating table. The victim's family later filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against Shaknovsky in January 2025.

  • In August 2024, the scheduled laparoscopic splenectomy procedure took place.
  • In January 2025, the victim's family filed a lawsuit against Dr. Shaknovsky for medical malpractice.
  • On Monday, April 14, 2026, a grand jury in Walton County indicted Dr. Shaknovsky on second-degree manslaughter charges.

The players

Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky

A physician who was performing a scheduled laparoscopic splenectomy procedure on a patient, but allegedly removed the patient's liver instead of the spleen, resulting in the patient's death.

The Victim

A 70-year-old man from Muscle Shoals, Alabama who died during the scheduled laparoscopic splenectomy procedure performed by Dr. Shaknovsky.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold medical professionals accountable when their actions result in the loss of life.”

— State Attorney's Office

What’s next

Dr. Shaknovsky is currently being held at the Walton County Jail and is awaiting his first court appearance.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical importance of medical professionals upholding the highest standards of care and the need for robust oversight and accountability measures within the healthcare system to prevent such devastating outcomes.