Sean Garinger, known as “Squishy,” a 20-year-old who appeared on MTV’s “16 and Pregnant,” was killed in an ATV accident in Boone, North Carolina, on February 28, 2024. Garinger was moving the ATV at his residence as per his mother, Mary Hobbs’s request, when the vehicle tipped over, causing fatal injuries.
Hobbs stated to a media outlet, “I was present when the accident occurred. He was merely moving the ATV to a different location to make room for my car.”
“As he was repositioning the ATV in front of me, the ground gave way under the weight, likely due to recent rain and mud,” she further narrated, describing how the ATV tipped over and unfortunately “crushed” her son’s head.
“I rushed to the neighbors for help, but no one answered. When I came back to him,” his mother continued, “it was clear that he had already died.”
Hobbs, who is 40, recalled, “I stayed with him until the emergency medical technicians arrived.”
The Boone Fire Department, Watauga Medics, and the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina promptly responded to the accident scene.
“I lost a significant part of my heart with my son that day,” she stated. “He was my only son, my pillar, my source of strength when I was completely devoid of it.”
Before the unfortunate incident, they were considering buying a car for Garinger, which would allow him to visit his two daughters in Colorado, Dareli and Esmi, who he had with his ex-partner, Selena Gutierrez, before their separation in 2023.
“Sean brought a unique light into my life. He was my little boy, my ‘Squishy,’ the heartbeat of my life,” Hobbs said. “We enjoyed our spontaneous road trips or beach visits.”
“Our bond was strengthened by our shared love for music, fast cars, shooting activities, and exploring new adventures,” she concluded.
Garinger’s obituary pays tribute to his adventurous spirit, highlighting his love for activities such as skydiving, shark diving, and surfing. His legacy goes beyond his adventurous spirit; he is remembered for his generosity and impact on lives across the country. Garinger’s upbringing as a military brat allowed him to form connections nationwide.
Garinger’s death has prompted a wave of condolences from the “16 and Pregnant” community and beyond, underlining the deep void his passing has left.
A memorial service for Garinger was held on March 2, 2024, at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home in Boone, North Carolina. His family requested donations to homeless shelters in lieu of flowers in memory of Garinger, reflecting his compassionate nature.
Sean is survived by his mother, two daughters, and six sisters.
