The family of Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, an Irish bikini designer found dead aboard a luxury yacht in Montauk last summer, has filed a $50 million wrongful death lawsuit alleging she was assaulted before her death.

Nolan-O’Slatarra, who lived in New York City and founded the boutique resort wear label East x East, was discovered on a 54-foot SeaRay yacht named Ripple at the Star Island Yacht Club in Montauk on or about August 4 and 5, 2025. According to attorney Michael Bowe, who represents the family, the EMTs found blood on her mouth, chest, head, and behind her head.

"It's been very difficult for the family," Bowe said, noting they have endured "unbearable heartbreak and a grueling, year-long wait for answers."

Her boyfriend, as reported by the Irish Independent, was not on board the yacht the night of her death and had received a text from Nolan-O’Slatarra indicating she would "Uber home" following what was described as a business outing.

The lawsuit alleges that Christopher Durnan, a Long Island businessman previously accused of fighting a former FDNY member and Ground Zero responder at a 9/11 tribute in 2021, assaulted Nolan-O’Slatarra aboard the yacht. The family has disputed public comments made by Durnan claiming communication with them, stating that their attempts to reach him by phone and text went unanswered.

The Suffolk County Homicide Squad is leading the investigation, with the cause and manner of Nolan-O’Slatarra’s death still undetermined pending an autopsy.

Sources