Montauk Designer Dies in Suspected Drug Overdose

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Montauk, NY, Suffolk County authorities are investigating the death of Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, a 33-year-old Irish swimwear designer, who was found unresponsive aboard a boat at the Montauk Yacht Club on August 5. Police suspect her death may have resulted from an accidental drug overdose.

According to multiple sources, a powdery white substance was discovered near Nolan-O’Slatarra’s body on the vessel, named Ripple. Detectives have not yet confirmed whether the substance was heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, or a combination of drugs. Toxicology results are still pending.

Suffolk County homicide detectives are actively pursuing individuals believed to have supplied the substances. “Even if the dealers did not intend to harm her, they may still face serious legal consequences,” one source told authorities. Legal experts note that prosecutions in similar high-profile cases can involve manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide charges in addition to possession and trafficking violations. Federal authorities may also become involved, potentially increasing the severity of penalties.

The case has drawn attention to ongoing efforts in New York State to strengthen accountability for drug-related deaths. Legislators have introduced “Chelsey’s Law,” which would create legal provisions for prosecuting dealers under charges of “drug-induced manslaughter” or “homicide by sale of an opiate controlled substance.” The legislation is named for Chelsey Murray, 31, who died in August 2022 after consuming fentanyl-laced heroin. Her dealer was sentenced to 10 years in prison following a guilty plea to felony drug sale.

Nolan-O’Slatarra was discovered around midnight aboard one of at least two Grateful Dead-themed 54-foot Sea Ray boats owned by insurance executive Christopher Durnan. Police continue to examine the circumstances surrounding her death and have urged anyone with information regarding the source of the drugs to come forward.

Authorities emphasize the dangers posed by illicit substances, noting that even small amounts of fentanyl can be lethal. Suffolk County homicide detectives are coordinating with local and federal agencies to ensure a thorough investigation and pursue appropriate charges against any individuals involved.

The investigation remains ongoing, and police are waiting for toxicology results to provide a clearer understanding of the cause of death. In the meantime, the case underscores the persistent public safety risks associated with illegal drug distribution and the legal measures being considered to hold dealers accountable for fatal overdoses.