Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, a well-known Manhattan designer and entrepreneur, was found dead on a boat docked at the Montauk Yacht Club early Tuesday morning, according to Suffolk County police. The 33-year-old, who professionally used the name Martha Nolan, was discovered unconscious around midnight and was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.
The cause of Nolan’s death is currently under investigation by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, with some members of the Montauk Yacht Club reporting that they heard screams from the docks late Monday night.
Nolan, a native of Ireland, moved to the United States at the age of 26. She was the founder of the fashion brand East x East and had been launching pop-up shops for her summerwear line in the Hamptons since 2023, according to her LinkedIn profile. She was also a marketing consultant and entrepreneur.
Nolan was remembered fondly by members of the yacht club and the local community. An anonymous member described her as a friendly and always smiling presence. Montauk residents also spoke highly of Nolan, describing her as incredibly kind and always wearing a bright smile.
Just last month, Nolan celebrated a pop-up shop at Montauk’s exclusive Gurney’s Resort. She shared her success on social media, posting a video on TikTok showcasing her swimwear, eyewear, and resort wear collection at the club.
The investigation into Nolan’s death is ongoing. Crime scene investigators were at the Montauk Yacht Club late into Tuesday night, with a van from the Suffolk County Crime Laboratory and a command post stationed there past 9 p.m. The Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad is leading the investigation.