A somber mood has settled over the upscale Montauk Yacht Club following the recent Montauk Yacht Club death involving New York City fashion designer Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra. The 33-year-old entrepreneur, known for her chic swimwear brand East by East, was found unresponsive on a boat docked at the renowned marina early Tuesday morning, August 5, 2025. Despite the efforts of good Samaritans performing CPR and a prompt emergency response, Nolan-O’Slatarra was pronounced dead at the scene.
Key Points Summary:
- The deceased woman was identified as Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, a Manhattan-based fashion designer and founder of the swimwear label East by East.
- She was found unconscious on a boat docked at the Montauk Yacht Club around midnight, with a 911 call made shortly thereafter.
- Preliminary investigations and autopsy revealed no evidence of violence; final cause of death pending further examination.
- Suffolk County Homicide Squad detectives are leading a thorough investigation, cooperating with local authorities.
- The Montauk Yacht Club and nearby resorts have expressed condolences and are working closely with law enforcement.
Montauk Yacht Club, a historic and exclusive waterfront property established in 1928, is known for catering to affluent visitors and has a reputation for safety and tranquility. The incident, therefore, has deeply shocked the Montauk community and the broader Hamptons area, especially amid the summer season when the club is bustling with tourists and residents alike.
Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra had relocated from Ireland to New York over a decade ago, quickly establishing herself within both the city’s fashion scene and the Hamptons’ vibrant social sphere. Her brand, East by East, epitomized a lifestyle that blended urban sophistication with coastal leisure—a “love letter” to New York City and the East End of Long Island. The label has garnered considerable attention, recently hosting a successful pop-up store near the club at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa.
Authorities were alerted early Tuesday by a man who discovered Nolan-O’Slatarra unconscious on the yacht. Emergency services responded quickly, but their attempts to resuscitate her were unsuccessful. Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives responded to the scene and have since been investigating the circumstances surrounding this unexpected death. A preliminary autopsy report showed no signs of trauma or violence, and toxicology results are awaited to further clarify the cause.
The Montauk Yacht Club issued a statement expressing sorrow over the tragedy and confirmed its full cooperation with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation. Local authorities have appealed to anyone with information to come forward to assist in their inquiries.
Martha’s passing has left a void in her community. Her business partner and close friends shared heartfelt messages recalling her entrepreneurial spirit, creative vision, and the joyful moments they shared. This incident has cast a shadow on what is typically a peaceful retreat known more for relaxation and social gatherings than tragedy.
As investigators continue to piece together the events leading to Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra’s Montauk Yacht Club death, questions surrounding potential contributing factors remain open. The community awaits further updates on the official findings from Suffolk County’s medical examiner.
The Montauk Yacht Club death of such a promising and beloved individual serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, even in the most idyllic settings. The fashion world, as well as the Montauk community, mourn the loss while seeking answers.
If you have any insights or thoughts on this tragic event, feel free to share them below. Stay connected for forthcoming updates as the investigation progresses.