In a tragic incident that has shocked the Long Island community, Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, a 33-year-old Manhattan resident, Irish woman, and entrepreneur, was found unresponsive on a boat docked at the prestigious Montauk Yacht Club.
The discovery was made in the early hours of Tuesday, around 12 a.m., when a man believed to be her boyfriend placed a 911 call, reporting that his girlfriend was unconscious aboard the vessel, according to Suffolk County Police.
Who Was Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra?
Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra was a vibrant entrepreneur known for her contributions to the luxury fashion industry.
Originally from Carlow in Ireland, she moved to New York and made a name for herself as the founder of East x East, a luxury sunglasses brand launched in December 2020. At just 28 years old, Nolan-O’Slatarra started the brand with a vision she had nurtured since her late teens, aiming to create a unique replacement sunglasses service.
Her entrepreneurial spirit was evident in her recent activities, including the grand opening of a pop-up shop at Gurney’s Montauk Resort and Seawater Spa, which she celebrated on her TikTok account (martha_nolan). The account showcased her glamorous lifestyle, featuring luxury items and moments spent in the Hamptons, where she was a familiar face in the community.
“She was very friendly, always smiling,” a local resident told the New York Post, describing Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra as a well-known and beloved figure in Montauk. “This tragedy is going to spark a lot of conversation.”
Details of the Incident
The boat where Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra was found, named Ripple, was described by a fellow boater as a “party boat.” Witnesses reported hearing screams when her body was discovered, with the boat’s owner—believed to be her boyfriend—seen running and shouting, “That’s my girlfriend!” as he sought help from others at the dock.
The vessel is registered in Long Beach, New York, and a regular at the Montauk Yacht Club claimed the owner was often seen in an inebriated state.
While the circumstances leading to Nolan-O’Slatarra’s presence on the boat remain unclear, authorities have not ruled out any possibility having played a role in her death.
Ongoing Investigation
The Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad is actively investigating the case to uncover the events leading to Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra’s untimely death. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392. The investigation is ongoing, with the medical examiner’s report expected to provide critical insights into the cause of death.
Montauk Yacht Club: A Luxurious Backdrop
The Montauk Yacht Club, where the tragedy occurred, is a renowned destination offering luxurious accommodations, including spa services, a private pool, beach access, harbor cruises, biking, and yoga. Room rates at the club peak at approximately $1,500 per night during the summer season, dropping to around $865 in the off-season, attracting affluent visitors to the Hamptons.
Community Impact and Legacy
The sudden loss of Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra has left the Montauk and Manhattan communities reeling. Known for her entrepreneurial drive and warm personality, she leaves behind a legacy through her brand, East x East, and her vibrant presence in the Hamptons social scene. As the investigation continues, many await answers to the questions surrounding her mysterious death.
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