A Florida doctor working as a Lyft driver was arrested in front of his passengers for allegedly removing the wrong organ from a patient who died, according to reports. Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky, 44, faces second-degree manslaughter charges after patient William Bryan died during surgery when Shaknovsky allegedly removed his liver instead of his spleen.
Arrest While Driving for Lyft
Shaknovsky was arrested on April 13 and later released on bond, the Walton County Sheriff's Office confirmed. At the time, he was driving two passengers in his silver Mitsubishi. Video footage obtained by NBC News shows Shaknovsky handcuffed and pressed against the car window. One passenger joked, "We're not using Lyft again. From now on, we're using Uber." Lyft removed Shaknovsky from the platform after learning of his arrest.
Patient's Death and Surgery
William Bryan, 70, and his wife were visiting their rental property in Okaloosa County in August 2024 when he experienced severe pain. Diagnostic imaging revealed a possibly enlarged spleen. Shaknovsky recommended surgery, which Bryan initially refused but later agreed to after pressure. During the procedure, staff expressed concerns about Shaknovsky's skills. The surgery went wrong when Shaknovsky removed Bryan's liver instead of his spleen, leading to cardiac arrest and death.
According to the Florida Health Department, the spleen and liver are on opposite sides of the abdomen and have distinct colors and consistencies. Staff reported shock when Shaknovsky claimed the removed organ was the spleen. An autopsy contradicted his account that a splenic aneurysm caused the bleeding.
Legal and Licensing Actions
Florida's surgeon general suspended Shaknovsky's medical license a month after the incident. The hospital stated Shaknovsky was never an employee and has not practiced there since August 2024. Bryan's widow filed a civil lawsuit seeking over $50,000 in damages. Attorney Joe Zarzaur said, "This heartbreaking loss has devastated the family... We are committed to holding these actors accountable."
Shaknovsky pleaded not guilty to second-degree manslaughter and faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. His arraignment is scheduled for May 19 in Walton County Circuit Court.
