Two minors died after the boat they were traveling in collided with a navigation marker in the Intracoastal Waterway in Berkeley Township, New Jersey, state authorities reported.

The victims, a 9-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy, were ejected from a 30-foot Tidewater Custom 280 boat when it collided with the structure around 9:09 p.m. Saturday, according to a statement from the New Jersey State Police.

According to the preliminary investigation, the operator of the boat, Stephen Schneider, 63, and another occupant identified as Laurie Schneider, 64, located the minors unconscious in the water after the crash.

Both children were rushed to an area hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.

Authorities investigate the causes of the accident

State Police indicated that the accident occurred while the boat was navigating the Intracoastal Waterway, when it collided with a navigation marker.

Authorities have not reported the causes of the impact or whether there were factors that contributed to the accident. The case remains under investigation and, at this time, no further details have been released.

According to ABC7, Stephen and Laurie Schneider would be the grandparents of the deceased minors. Additionally, Jersey Shore Online reported, citing sources, that the group had previously been at MJ's Restaurant Bar and Grill before boarding the boat. However, authorities have not confirmed whether this event is related to the accident.

State Police reiterated that the investigation remains open and will release additional information as the process progresses.