Stephen Schneider, 64, has been charged with homicide following a July 19 boat crash at the Jersey Shore that killed his two grandchildren, Mya Bella Golabek, 9, and Sigmund Paul Golabek, 7. Police allege Schneider was operating his 30-foot boat while under the influence of alcohol when it collided with a channel marker in Barnegat Bay.
The collision caused the children to be thrown from the vessel. Schneider and his wife retrieved them from the water, but they were pronounced dead at a local hospital. Police have not released Schneider's blood alcohol content from the time of the incident.
Schneider surrendered to authorities and was lodged in Ocean County jail. He faces multiple charges, including two counts of reckless vessel homicide/death by vessel, a second-degree felony, as well as operating a vessel under the influence and reckless operation of a vessel.
Mya and Sigmund were described as having an unbreakable sibling bond, sharing a love for sports and family. Mya was noted as an artist and athlete who enjoyed swimming and crafting, while Sigmund was passionate about baseball, basketball, and spending time with loved ones. Their obituaries highlighted their close relationship and shared adventures.
Berkeley Councilman James Byrnes told local news outlets that emergency responders attempted to revive the children. He observed one child wearing a life jacket, which was removed during CPR efforts. The incident has deeply affected the local community, with officials expressing condolences to the family.