The family of Irish fashion designer Martha Nolan-O'Slatarra has launched a civil lawsuit in the United States seeking $50 million (€43 million) in damages over her death on a boat in New York last year.
Ms Nolan-O'Slatarra, 33, originally from Co Carlow and later based in Manhattan, was pronounced dead in the early hours of August 5, 2025, following an incident aboard a vessel in Montauk, on New York's Long Island.
According to court documents filed on behalf of her estate, the legal action alleges "wrongful death" and names Christopher Durnan, of Garden City, New York, as the defendant.
The filing states that the estate is seeking damages for Ms Nolan-O'Slatarra's death, as well as compensation for the "personal injuries and conscious pain and suffering" she allegedly experienced before she died.
It further claims that both causes of action stem from the alleged wrongful conduct of Mr Durnan during the night of August 4 and 5, 2025, aboard a vessel located at the Star Island Yacht Club on Star Island Road in Montauk.
The civil action does not determine criminal liability but instead seeks financial compensation through the courts. The case has been filed in New York, where the incident took place.
Ms Nolan-O'Slatarra had built a successful career after moving to the United States at the age of 24. She founded the fashion label East X East, which gained recognition for its contemporary designs and luxury resort wear.
Alongside her work in fashion, she served as director of operations at investment firm K4 Capital and also managed the Amazon fashion brand Duper. In the weeks before her death, she celebrated the opening of a pop-up shop at an exclusive oceanfront resort in the Hamptons, marking another milestone in her growing business career.
News of her death prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues and members of the fashion industry in both Ireland and the United States. Many remembered her entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and determination.
At her funeral in Ireland, mourners heard that despite her untimely passing, Ms Nolan-O'Slatarra had lived "a short life, but a packed life", reflecting on the impact she had made both personally and professionally.
The wrongful death lawsuit marks the latest legal development arising from the circumstances surrounding Ms Nolan-O'Slatarra's death. The proceedings will now move through the New York civil court system, where the claims made by her estate will be considered. At this stage, the allegations contained in the filing remain to be tested before the court.
