The body of Dr. Dmitriy Zak, a Mountain Home oncologist and hematologist, was recovered Tuesday morning from Lake Norfork, according to Mountain Home Police Chief Eddie Griffin. Zak had been reported missing Monday.
Chief Griffin stated that Zak’s vehicle was found in the Henderson area on Tuesday, which prompted a coordinated search involving the Mountain Home Police Department, the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, and the Arkansas Department of Correction K-9 team. Subsequently, Zak’s body was located in shallow water near Henderson Campground at approximately 11:30 a.m.
The body has been sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death, Griffin confirmed. No further details have been made available at this time.
Dr. Zak, who joined Highlands Oncology at Baxter Health in 2023, was described as a compassionate caregiver who made a significant impact on his patients and colleagues. Highlands Oncology and Baxter Health released a joint statement mourning his death and calling it a "profound" loss to the community.
The statement highlighted Zak’s dedication to his patients, saying, "He listened. He cared. And he walked alongside patients and families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives." Zak had been honored with the health system's Halo Award five times for his exceptional care.
Highlands Oncology also confirmed that steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted treatment for patients previously under Zak’s care, working closely with Baxter Health.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with Dr. Zak’s family, his patients, his colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched,” the statement said.
Dr. Zak had been part of the Mountain Home medical community for a relatively short time but had already left a lasting impression. His death marks a tragic loss for the local healthcare field and the patients he served.