Bayville Man Released While Awaiting Trial
Stephen Schneider, a Bayville man accused of causing a fatal boating crash that killed his two grandchildren, has been released from the Ocean County Jail and will await his trial from home.
Schneider faces charges including operating a vessel under the influence, reckless operation of a vessel and reckless vessel homicide. Prosecutors say he was intoxicated when his boat crashed into a channel marker on Barnegat Bay in July.
Two Children Killed in Crash
The crash claimed the lives of Schneider’s grandchildren, nine year old Mya Golabek and her seven year old brother, Sigmund Golabek.
Prosecutors said Schneider had a blood alcohol level of 0.16 percent, twice the legal limit. Assistant prosecutor Kate Burke said the level showed the extent of Schneider’s impairment when he chose to operate the boat.
Judge Grants Release
Superior Court Judge Wendel Daniels allowed Schneider to return home, citing his lack of a criminal history and the wishes of the children’s parents.
Schneider’s defense attorney, William Cunningham, supported his release during a virtual hearing. He said Schneider would likely never operate a boat or drink alcohol again after the tragedy.
Schneider is currently banned from operating a boat or driving a car until further evaluation by the court.
Family Supports His Release
The children’s father, Sigmund Golabek, submitted a letter supporting Schneider’s release. He described him as a loving grandfather and a generous man who played an important role in his children’s lives.
Prosecutors Wanted Him Held
The Ocean County prosecutor argued that Schneider should remain in jail, calling the incident catastrophic. Prosecutors stressed that his blood alcohol level demonstrated the serious level of impairment involved in the crash.
The tragedy comes during a deadly summer on Barnegat Bay. Four people have died in boating incidents this summer, with each case involving boats crashing into channel markers.
