Montauk, NY – Authorities have identified the woman found dead aboard a docked boat at the Montauk Yacht Club early Tuesday morning as 33-year-old Manhattan resident and fashion designer Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra.
Known professionally and socially as Martha Nolan, she was a well-loved figure in the East End community and an emerging entrepreneur in the Hamptons fashion scene.
Discovery at Montauk Yacht Club
Suffolk County police said Nolan-O’Slatarra was found unconscious around 12 a.m. Tuesday on a vessel moored at the yacht club. First responders pronounced her dead at the scene.
Her cause of death has not yet been determined and will be confirmed by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad is investigating the incident, though authorities have not released any indication of foul play at this time.
According to witnesses, crime scene investigators from the Suffolk County Crime Laboratory and a mobile command post were still on-site late into Tuesday night, combing the boat and dock area for evidence.
Witness Accounts and Community Shock
Members of the Montauk Yacht Club, including some captains, reported hearing screaming from the docks late Monday night, just hours before Nolan was found.
One club member described her as “very friendly, always smiling,” adding that her death will “spark a lot of conversation” in the tight-knit East End community. Another Montauk resident told The Post that Nolan was known for her kindness and positivity, and that she often greeted people with warmth and sincerity.
The news has rattled both Montauk locals and friends from Manhattan, many of whom knew her as a talented and driven entrepreneur.
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Career and Background
Nolan was a marketing consultant, entrepreneur, and founder of East x East, a summerwear fashion label inspired by coastal living and resort luxury. She began promoting her brand in 2023 through pop-up events in the Hamptons, offering collections of swimwear, resort wear, and accessories.
Her creative vision gained recognition quickly, with her designs featured at exclusive East End venues. Just last month, she celebrated a pop-up event at Montauk’s Gurney’s Resort, posting on TikTok with the caption “Goals Achieved” alongside clips of her designs displayed at the high-end spa.
Originally from Ireland, Nolan moved to the United States at age 26 to expand her professional opportunities. In an interview with the Irish Independent, she shared how her love for design and her appreciation for summer culture inspired her to launch her brand in the Hamptons.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not disclosed whether Nolan was alone on the boat or if others were present before her death. As of now, no arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Investigators are expected to review surveillance footage from the yacht club and interview witnesses who were present in the marina area late Monday night.
The Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad continues to investigate, and officials have stated that updates will be provided as new details emerge.
Community in Mourning
Nolan’s passing has left a noticeable void in Montauk’s social and business circles. Friends, clients, and fellow entrepreneurs have been posting tributes online, remembering her as a “bright light” and someone who brought joy to everyone she met.
Her brand, East x East, had recently begun to gain traction outside of Long Island, and she was reportedly planning new collections for the 2026 summer season.
This developing case has left many in Montauk and Manhattan grieving the loss of a rising entrepreneur whose life ended far too soon.
What are your memories of Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments, and follow updates at newyorkdailygazette.com as new details emerge.
