NJ Grandfather Charged With Homicide After Drunk Boat Crash Kills Two Grandchildren

A New Jersey grandfather was found drunk when he crashed his boat late on July 19, an act that killed his two young grandchildren who were the only children of his daughter. Stephen Schneider, 64, faces arrest charges for reckless vessel homicide after striking a channel marker in Barnegat Bay near his $1 million waterfront home. He allegedly drove a 30-foot Tidewater Custom 280 while intoxicated and sent Mya Golabek, nine, and her seven-year-old brother Sigmund into the water.

Schneider and his wife Laurie Schneider desperately pulled the children back aboard after the collision, but officials in the Garden State confirmed they were unresponsive by then. The youngsters died at the hospital following the crash where it is unclear if their parents were with them on board at that exact moment. Stephen Schneider remains held at Ocean County Jail without bond while prosecutors move forward with charges including operating a vessel under the influence.

The victims are described as fun-loving and adventurous, qualities highlighted in Mya's obituary which stated she brought light to everyone around her. Her family said she filled lives with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories over her nine beautiful years. Sigmund's tribute noted his sweet smile and gentle heart brought happiness to all who knew him despite his time here being much too short.

The obituaries emphasize that Mya and Siggy were not just siblings but best friends who shared countless adventures together. One source told Jersey Shore Online the family had been at MJ's Restaurant Bar and Grill before getting on the boat for this tragic 9pm ride. Now they continue their journey together hand in hand, carrying their love beyond this world and leaving behind a reminder of an unbreakable bond.

Sources say the crash happened almost a month ago yet the pain remains raw for the Golabek family who lost everything. Police contacted Berkeley Township authorities and the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office seeking comment on this heartbreaking case that unfolded in Barnegat Bay. The community now faces a difficult reality as they mourn two lives cut short by intoxication and negligence on a boat meant for joy.