Crime scene yellow tape
Crime scene yellow tape Photo from Pexels

Martha Nolan-O'Slatarra, a 33-year-old Irish fashion designer based in Manhattan, was found dead aboard a docked boat at the Montauk Yacht Club in the early hours of Tuesday, 5 August 2025. Emergency services were called shortly after midnight when the designer was discovered unconscious.

Despite attempts by bystanders and first responders to revive her, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding her untimely death.

Police Respond to 911 Call at Montauk Yacht Club

East Hampton Town Police confirmed they received a 911 call reporting an unresponsive woman on a vessel moored at the exclusive Montauk Yacht Club on Star Island Road, as reported by Yahoo News Canada. Officers arrived at approximately 12 a.m., where Good Samaritans were already performing CPR. Police and paramedics took over lifesaving efforts, but Nolan-O'Slatarra could not be revived. The yacht had reportedly been used during a fashion-related event in the area earlier that week.

Following protocol for unexpected deaths, Suffolk County Police's Homicide Squad has taken over the investigation.

Cause of Death Remains Undetermined

An initial autopsy conducted by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner's Office found no obvious signs of trauma or violence. As of now, authorities have not uncovered any evidence to suggest she was murdered. Toxicology and additional postmortem examinations are ongoing.

A police spokesperson noted that the involvement of homicide detectives is routine in such unexplained deaths and does not necessarily indicate that a crime has occurred. Investigators are awaiting further medical findings before drawing conclusions.

Martha Nolan-O'Slatarra: A Rising Star in Fashion and Business

Originally from Carlow, Ireland, Nolan-O'Slatarra had built a successful career in the United States as a fashion designer and entrepreneur. She was the co-founder of East x East, a swimwear and resort-wear label that recently held a pop-up store at Gurney's Resort in Montauk. Her professional background also included roles as director of operations at K4 Capital and creative work with branding studio Duper.

Well-regarded in both fashion and business circles, Nolan-O'Slatarra was known for her ambition, creativity and cross-industry expertise. Her presence in Montauk had grown in recent years, particularly during the summer season when her brand featured in local events and boutiques.

Friends and Business Partner Mourn Sudden Loss

The news of her death sent shockwaves through the design and resort communities. Dylan Grace, her co-founder at East x East, paid tribute in an emotional online post.

'We dreamed big together, laughed harder than anyone else could understand, and built so much from nothing. I'm truly blessed and grateful to have had you in my life. Love you so much Mar. Fly high girl', he wrote on Instagram.

Local business owners who had interacted with Nolan-O'Slatarra during the pop-up described her as vibrant, personable and full of vision.

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to her family. Tributes have also come from her hometown of Carlow, where she was known before relocating to the United States.

High-End Montauk Setting Raises Public Attention

The Montauk Yacht Club, where Nolan-O'Slatarra was found, is a luxury marina and resort known for hosting upscale events, celebrities and socialites. The presence of police and emergency vehicles in the early hours has drawn widespread attention, particularly given the club's exclusive reputation and the rare nature of such incidents in the area.

Police have reassured the public that there is no known ongoing threat, and the investigation remains active.

Investigation Continues Amidst Speculation

At this stage, no arrests have been made, and police have not named any persons of interest. The Suffolk County Police Department has asked the public to avoid speculation as they await final autopsy and toxicology results. Updates are expected in the coming days as officials work to determine what led to the sudden death of the young designer.