NEWYou now have the option to listen to articles from various sources!
Law enforcement officials in Montauk, N.Y., conducted a thorough search of a luxurious yacht following the discovery of a deceased Irish bikini designer, as new information surfaced in the ongoing investigation into the 33-year-old’s death.
The yacht was photographed by officials on Tuesday while it was docked at the exclusive Montauk Yacht Club off Star Island Road in Montauk, a prestigious marina destination located at the eastern end of Long Island. Officials, wearing disposable blue gloves, took photos and inspected the yacht’s bow while it was docked.
A source familiar with the investigation revealed to Fox News Digital that crime technicians had identified residue on the yacht as fingerprint powder.
The investigation into the death of Martha Nolan‑O’Slatarra, a well-known Manhattan fashion entrepreneur recognized for her high-end bikini brand and engaging social media presence, continued after she was discovered deceased on a docked yacht in the early hours of Tuesday. Despite attempts by bystanders to administer CPR, she was pronounced dead on the yacht.
Individuals who were on other boats at the Montauk Yacht Club late Monday night informed 27East that a man who owned two adjacent boats at the marina sought help from others on the dock around midnight, throwing items at neighboring boats to alert their crews.
One witness, who chose to remain anonymous, recounted to the local outlet that the man was naked and yelling, “Do something, do something,” as he ran along the dock trying to wake up others. In his urgency, he reportedly tossed a tube of sunscreen at a neighboring vessel.
Two crew members from a neighboring yacht responded to the man’s 54-foot SeaRay named Ripple, called 911, and attempted to revive the woman on board, but their efforts were unsuccessful, according to the witness. Homicide investigators spent “some 18 hours aboard the boat on Tuesday” before removing the body.
Authorities have not yet determined the official cause of death, but indicated on Wednesday that an initial autopsy “did not show evidence of violence.” Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden informed Fox News Digital that Suffolk County authorities should have a better understanding of the cause of death “within a week,” pending toxicology results.
“The initial autopsy performed on day one typically reveals whether it was a natural or violent death about 90% of the time,” Baden explained. “If there is uncertainty, it’s usually due to awaiting the toxicology results.
A local woman, who requested anonymity, shared with Fox News Digital that certain areas of Montauk are known for being party hotspots and suggested that drug use is not uncommon.
“It has become a popular influencer area, so it’s common to see cocaine use, which is quite prevalent,” she stated. “It’s a major scene for partying. People go to the clubs and then return to their boats if they have one.”
Family ‘numb with shock’
Meanwhile, Nolan’s relatives in Ireland expressed devastation and disbelief over the tragedy.
“I have no idea what happened to my daughter,” her mother, Elma Nolan, told The Irish Independent, describing herself as “numb with shock.”
Elma recalled how her youngest daughter, Jacqui, arrived at their home in Carlow, Ireland, Tuesday night “crying and shaking” to deliver the heartbreaking news.
She later spoke with a detective in Montauk, but was informed that no further details could be disclosed at this early stage of the investigation.
“We weren’t given any information about the circumstances,” she said, noting that Martha had planned to return to Ireland that week and had called just days before to inquire about a ride from the airport. “That was the last time we spoke.”
The Montauk community has been shaken by the loss. Nolan was the founder of East x East, a boutique resort wear label that she often promoted through stylish glimpses of her photo shoots and design process.
According to her LinkedIn profile, Nolan obtained her bachelor’s degree in commerce and master’s degree in digital marketing from University College Dublin before relocating to New York City at the age of 26.
As previously reported, Montauk has experienced various tragedies in recent years, including incidents that have disrupted its peaceful reputation.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Suffolk County Police Department for comment.
A spokesperson for the Montauk Yacht Club, where the incident occurred, confirmed the event but declined to provide additional information.
“We are saddened by the incident that transpired,” the spokesperson informed Fox News Digital. “Our team is cooperating with law enforcement in their ongoing investigation and remains dedicated to the safety and well-being of our guests and staff. We have no further comment at this time.”
