Deacon found dismembered in his home, adult son charged with first-degree murder

OMAHA, Neb. (TCN) — A Catholic deacon was found dismembered in his home and his adult son was booked into jail and charged with first-degree murder, authorities say. 

The Omaha Police Department announced the arrest of 36-year-old Martin Zak in connection with the homicide of his father, John Zak, on March 13. 

KETV reports Martin Zak was living with his parents at the time. On March 11, Deacon John Zak did not show up for work and his wife, Mary Zak, became concerned. When she called John Zak’s phone, it reportedly rang in Martin Zak’s pocket, but he allegedly denied it was his father’s phone. The back door to the home was also damaged. According to WOWT, Martin Zak did not have a key to the house and was not allowed to be there without his parents present.

Mary Zak called police that night, according to KETV. Responding officers discovered John Zak’s dismembered body, and, according to police, the knives they believe were used to dismember him were found in the dishwasher. According WOWT, John Zak’s torso was found in a tote under the porch, and other body parts were found inside and outside the home. 

The following day, police apprehended Martin Zak after attempting to pull him over. After a pursuit, police say they took him into custody. WOWT reports Martin Zak was allegedly driving his father’s car and had his father’s wallet with him.

At his first court appearance on March 16, Martin Zak was charged with first-degree murder, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, flight to avoid arrest, and theft by unlawful taking, KETV reports.

John Zak was a deacon at St. Peter’s Catholic Church for more than 25 years, per KETV. He and his wife adopted Martin Zak when he was 3 months old. The outlet reports the Zaks had 13 children. 

Martin Zak had struggled with his mental health, according to KETV. Friend Cindy Englekamp said, “Mary and John were trying to be very careful and set boundaries, but still loved him. He was their son and wanted to help him. I didn’t think he would go that far, but the kids were concerned for the parents’ safety before this happened.”

According to WOWT, Martin Zak has a criminal history dating back to 2012 that includes charges for unlawful occupancy, reckless driving, assault by mutual consent, and third-degree assault.

KETV reports Martin Zak is being held without bond and is scheduled to appear in court again on April 17. If convicted, he could face a life sentence in prison.

The investigation is ongoing.

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