Irish Fashion Designer Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra Laid to Rest Amid Investigation

Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, a prominent Manhattan-based fashion designer, was mourned at her funeral in Ireland after being found dead on a boat at the Montauk Yacht Club. The funeral took place at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Carlow, a small town about 50 miles from Dublin, with her boyfriend Nicholas DiRubio expressing how she had a gift for “lighting up every room” she entered.

She was described by her sister Jacqui as her “built-in best friend” and recalled her as someone who taught her everything about life. Her personal belongings, including her passport and makeup brushes, were displayed during the service, symbolizing her vibrant personality and international roots. The ceremony was attended by family and friends, with her partner, Nicholas, carrying her casket from the church.

Martha, who moved to New York in 2018 to co-found the swimwear brand East x East, was discovered unresponsive earlier this month on a boat named “Ripple” in the Hamptons. Authorities suspect she may have died from an accidental drug overdose, though officials have not yet confirmed the cause, pending toxicology results from an autopsy.

Investigators are examining whether “designer drugs” played a role, emphasizing the need for comprehensive toxicology testing due to the proliferation of lab-created substances. Her family has pressed for further investigation and questioned the circumstances of her death, urging law enforcement to identify anyone who was with her that evening.

The family’s attorney stated they are cooperating with officials to ensure the case is thoroughly investigated, citing that “the circumstances surrounding this are far from typical.”