Montauk, New York — A New Jersey fishing community is mourning the loss of a 38-year-old father of two who died after suffering an apparent medical emergency while on a deep-sea fishing trip more than 100 miles offshore earlier this week.
Authorities said Sean Smida became unconscious while aboard a private fishing boat approximately 130 nautical miles east of Montauk Point, New York, prompting an emergency response involving the U.S. Coast Guard and local first responders.
The unexpected tragedy has left family, friends and fellow anglers remembering Smida not only for his love of fishing but also for his dedication to his wife and two children.
Medical Emergency Reported Far from Shore
According to the East Hampton Police Department, the emergency unfolded Tuesday morning while Smida was fishing aboard a private vessel.
The group on board contacted the U.S. Coast Guard at approximately 9:53 a.m. after Smida became unresponsive following what officials described as an apparent medical emergency.
The boat immediately changed course and headed toward Coast Guard Station Montauk, where emergency personnel were waiting upon its arrival.
Authorities said the vessel reached the station at 1:42 p.m., where police officers and emergency responders met the crew.
Authorities Confirm Fisherman’s Death
Following the boat’s arrival, the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office examined Smida and pronounced him dead.
Officials said the medical examiner is continuing to investigate the exact cause of death. At this time, police have stated there is no indication of foul play, and the incident is being treated as a medical emergency.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine what led to the tragic event.
Fishing Community Pays Tribute
Smida was well known throughout New Jersey’s fishing community and worked at Grumpy’s Tackle in Seaside Park, where coworkers described him as much more than an employee.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, the company remembered him as a close friend whose passion for fishing inspired many.
“He was family. He was a friend, an incredible fisherman, and someone who left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” the company wrote. “Sean was taken from us far too soon while doing what he loved most.”
The tribute also emphasized that while fishing was one of Smida’s greatest passions, his family always came first.
“While so many people knew him for his passion for fishing, those closest to him knew that his greatest passion was his family,” the company wrote, referring to his wife and two children. “They were his entire world, and everything he did was for them.”
Remembered for His Kindness and Generosity
Friends and colleagues say Smida’s impact reached far beyond the water.
The fishing shop described him as someone whose kindness, generosity and willingness to help others made him unforgettable.
“Sean’s kindness, loyalty, generosity, and willingness to help anyone who needed him made him one of a kind. He touched countless lives, and the overwhelming outpouring of love we’ve already seen is a testament to the incredible man he was,” the post continued. “His friendship, his laugh, his passion, and the memories he gave us will never be forgotten.”
As loved ones continue to grieve, many are remembering Sean Smida as a devoted father, loving husband and respected fisherman whose life ended while doing something he deeply loved.
Our thoughts are with Sean Smida’s family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. If you’d like, you can share your memories, condolences or thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
