Two Young Siblings Pass Away During Family Vacation – What Happened
Mya and Siggy were cherished for their radiant smiles, spirited personalities, and the close connection that filled their family’s lives with happiness.
A summer vacation for a family turned tragic, with the sudden loss of two young siblings leaving a tight-knit community in New Jersey struggling to cope. The events that unfolded shortly after nightfall involved the two children, along with two relatives, resulting in a catastrophic incident on the water.
Nine-year-old Mya Bella Golabek and her seven-year-old brother, Sigmund Paul Golabek, affectionately known as ‘Siggy,’ were beloved members of their family.
The siblings tragically passed away on July 19, 2026, leaving behind a grieving family, friends, classmates, and teammates who had filled their brief lives with love.
Remembering Mya’s Competitive Nature
Born on April 6, 2017, Mya was a beacon of light for everyone around her. Her official obituary honors her as a sweet and fun-loving girl whose vibrant spirit made others feel cherished.
She was always active, and her competitive nature shone through in everything she pursued. Mya had a passion for softball and basketball, demonstrating her energy and determination on the court.
In addition to sports, Mya loved swimming, spending time at the beach, and crabbing during warm summer evenings. Away from physical activities, she enjoyed creating art through crafting and drawing, showcasing her creative talents.
Mya shared a particularly affectionate bond with her family’s two dogs, Tequila and Captain, who provided her with comfort and countless joyful memories.
Her obituary highlights that Mya’s kind heart and infectious smile brought joy wherever she went. Though her life was tragically short, her loved ones hold onto the memories they will cherish forever. "Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our angel," the tribute states.
Siggy, the Family’s Beloved ‘Little Superhero’
Siggy was born on November 29, 2018. In his seven years of life, he filled his family’s home with laughter and love, leaving behind memories they will forever treasure.
His official obituary describes Siggy as a sweet but shy boy with a spirit for adventure. With a vivid imagination and a unique personality, he held a special place in the hearts of those around him.
He enjoyed basketball, baseball, swimming, and the excitement of exploring his interests, particularly his love for Sonic and dinosaurs, which his family adored.
Like Mya, Siggy had a strong bond with their dogs, Tequila and Captain, who were more than pets to him; they were his friends and sources of affection.
Siggy was also affectionately known as a ‘momma’s boy,’ often playfully challenging his mother to games of rock-paper-scissors that included fun bets.
Sharing a name with his father created an additional significant connection, and they had a special handshake that marked a unique tradition between them.
Some of his fondest moments were filled with laughter and play alongside cousins and friends. His gentle nature, cheerful smile, and playful spirit brought joy to all who knew him. "Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever our little superhero," his family wrote.
Siblings United by an Unbreakable Bond
Mya and Siggy were more than just siblings; they were best friends, creating laughter and memories together. Their obituaries noted, "A sibling bond is a love that lasts forever."
Their family expressed that Mya and Siggy will continue their journey together, ‘hand in hand,’ sharing their love beyond this life.
The siblings are survived by their parents, Jennifer and Sigmund Golabek, and their obituaries also mention grandparents Laurie and Steven Schneider, Roseann Chiarella, Sigmund Golabek, and Dawn Poppe, along with an extensive extended family.
The mention of Laurie and Steven among the grandparents is crucial for understanding how what began as a regular family outing turned into a devastating tragedy.
Tragic Events of the Night
At around 9:09 p.m. on July 19, New Jersey State Police received reports of a serious boat crash in the bay near Berkeley Township. An initial investigation revealed that a 30-foot Tidewater Custom 280 had been traveling through the Intracoastal Waterway when it collided with a channel marker, as reported.
The impact of the accident caused both Mya and Siggy to be thrown into the water. The vessel’s operator, identified as 63-year-old Stephen from Bayville, was aboard along with Laurie, 64.
The obituaries note that Laurie and Steven are the children’s grandparents. While the police identified the operator’s first name as ‘Stephen,’ the obituaries refer to him as ‘Steven.’
After the collision, both children were found unresponsive in the water by Steven and Laurie. They were rushed to a nearby hospital in Toms River, where they were pronounced dead. Reports indicate that the family had left MJ’s Restaurant Bar and Grill shortly before the incident.
However, authorities have not verified this detail. Rescue teams were positioned near the pier at MJ’s Restaurant.
Life Jacket Found Near One Child
Berkeley Township Councilman James Byrnes shared a heartbreaking detail regarding the incident. "The firemen jumped right in… One child had a life jacket next to him. Of course, with CPR being performed, they’ll remove it," James explained.
Authorities stated that the vessel had struck Channel Marker 39 in Barnegat Bay. James confirmed that the marker was fully operational that night, and its lights were functioning.
State police have not disclosed whether factors such as speed, weather, impairment, visibility, or mechanical issues contributed to the incident. The cause is still under investigation, and no further conclusions have been reached.
A Community in Mourning
The news of the children’s tragic deaths struck Bayville and the neighboring community hard. Local resident Michelle Monticello expressed her sorrow during a visit to the area to pay her respects. "It’s a very tight community, feeling very disheartened, very sad," she stated.
The tragedy has deeply affected the emergency first responders who attended to the scene that night. "We ensure our first responders are supported. I have the necessary equipment for them. This will be something they’ll carry in their hearts forever, and our thoughts are with the family. This is truly heartbreaking," James remarked.
This Incident Marks the Second Fatal Marker Crash in 55 Days
The deaths of Mya and Siggy occurred less than two months after another deadly boating incident involving a navigation marker on Barnegat Bay. As reported, 28-year-old Gunnar Pearson of Barnegat lost his life after a boat struck a day marker around 5:45 p.m. on May 25.
Gunnar and his girlfriend were thrown into the water, and he was identified as a member of the New Jersey National Guard and a graduate of Barnegat High School.
Thus, the collision involving Mya and Siggy on July 19 marked the second fatal crash at a navigation marker on Barnegat Bay within a span of just 55 days.
Other Families Have Endured Similar Heartbreak This Summer
This New Jersey tragedy follows another heartbreaking boating accident earlier that month involving children. Reports indicate that three children perished after a recreational boat capsized during an unexpected severe storm on Geneva Lake in Wisconsin.
The boat had six adults and four children on board. While the adults and one child were rescued, the other three children were later recovered and pronounced dead despite attempts to revive them.
Officials confirmed that all four children were wearing life jackets, and the incident remains under investigation. Authorities have cautioned boaters about the rapid onset of dangerous weather on the water.
Preparing to Bid Farewell to Mya and Siggy
A joint visitation for Mya and Siggy is scheduled for Friday, July 24, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Riggs Funeral Home, located on North Main Street in Forked River. A funeral liturgy will take place at 7:30 p.m., followed by a private cremation.
In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to make donations to causes that reflect the children’s passions. Contributions in Mya’s name can go to the 10U Storm softball team, while those wishing to honor Siggy can support the Popcorn Park Zoo.
Mya is fondly remembered as the family’s angel, while Siggy is cherished as their little superhero. Together, they leave behind a story marked by a brief but profound love that transcends this world.