Martha Nolan-oslatarra Death and Obituary – The sudden and tragic death of 33-year-old Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, a celebrated fashion designer and entrepreneur, has sent shockwaves through both the fashion industry and her native community in Carlow, Ireland. Nolan-O’Slatarra was found dead aboard a yacht docked at the Montauk Yacht Club in Montauk, New York, in the early hours of August 5, 2025.
According to official reports, the incident unfolded just after midnight when a man on the yacht discovered Nolan-O’Slatarra unconscious. Good Samaritans on the scene immediately attempted CPR while emergency services were called. Despite these efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after first responders arrived.
The Suffolk County authorities have confirmed that the East End Drug Task Force is investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. A preliminary autopsy revealed no signs of physical violence. While toxicology results are still pending, investigators believe she may have died of a suspected drug overdose. However, they have not ruled out the possibility of homicide or natural causes, leaving the final determination open until further forensic analysis is complete.
Media reports have added a layer of intrigue to the case. The US Sun and Newsday both cited witness accounts describing a naked man, identified as 60-year-old yacht owner Christopher Durnan, reportedly screaming for help when Nolan-O’Slatarra was found. Her boyfriend was not present at the time of the incident, and his whereabouts during the evening have not been linked to the investigation.
Born and raised in Carlow, Ireland, Nolan-O’Slatarra moved to New York City in 2015 to pursue her passion for design. In a few short years, she established herself as a creative force, founding East x East, a sustainable swimwear and resort wear brand that blended modern aesthetics with environmentally conscious materials. Her designs earned her recognition in both boutique and mainstream fashion circles, admired for their chic minimalism and commitment to ethical production.
Friends and family recall her as a vibrant, determined, and deeply creative individual. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Nolan-O’Slatarra had recently undergone significant personal changes. She finalized her divorce from her husband, Sam Ryan, only months before her passing and was reportedly looking forward to a new chapter in her life. Plans were in place for her to visit her mother in Ireland, a trip they had spoken about shortly before her untimely death.
Her passing has left a deep void among her loved ones, colleagues, and clients who admired her talent and spirit. Tributes have poured in from fellow designers, industry peers, and friends around the world, many of whom described her as a bright light whose warmth matched her creative brilliance.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the events leading up to her final moments on the Montauk yacht. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward. For now, those who knew Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra mourn not only the loss of a talent
ed designer but also a cherished daughter, friend, and inspiration.
