A boating accident off the coast of Berkeley Township, New Jersey, resulted in the deaths of a 9-year-old girl and her 7-year-old brother. The siblings, Mya and Sigmund Golabek, were ejected from a 30-foot Tidewater Custom 280 vessel after their grandfather, Steven Schneider, 63, struck a channel marker on Sunday.
Steven Schneider was reportedly operating the boat at the time of the collision. The force of the impact threw Mya and Sigmund into the water. Their grandparents, Steven and Laurie Schneider, 64, pulled the unresponsive children from the water. They were transported to an area hospital, where they were pronounced deceased.
New Jersey State Police confirmed they responded to a report of a serious vessel crash in the Berkeley Township Bay Area on July 19 at approximately 9:09 p.m. The preliminary investigation indicates the boat was traveling through the Intercoastal Waterway when it struck a marker.
The children's parents, Sigmund and Jennifer Golabek, are grieving the loss of their only two children. Obituaries describe Mya as a 'sweet, fun-loving' child with a 'beautiful smile, kind heart, and joyful personality,' who brought 'love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.' Her brother Sigmund is remembered for his 'sweet smile, gentle heart, and playful spirit,' and for bringing 'happiness to everyone around him.' The obituaries also highlighted the deep bond between the siblings, stating, 'Mya and Siggy were not only brother and sister, but best friends who shared laughter, adventures, and countless memories.'
Sources indicated the family had been at MJ's Restaurant Bar and Grill before getting on the boat. The New Jersey State Police are continuing their investigation into the collision. A Meal Train has been organized to support the family, with organizers expressing gratitude for the donations received and asking for continued prayers for the family. 
