Family Sues for $50M in Montauk Yacht Death Case, Alleges Assault

The family of Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, an Irish bikini designer found dead aboard a luxury yacht in Montauk last summer, has initiated legal action seeking $50 million in damages. The wrongful death complaint, filed in Manhattan Supreme Court on Tuesday by attorney Michael Bowe, names Christopher Durnan as the defendant and alleges he intentionally and wrongfully assaulted Nolan-O’Slatarra on or about August 4 and 5, 2025.

Nolan-O’Slatarra, who founded the boutique resort wear label East x East, was discovered dead aboard the 54-foot SeaRay named Ripple at the Star Island Yacht Club in the early morning hours of August 5. Emergency responders found evidence of trauma when they arrived at the scene, including blood in her mouth, on her chest, on her head, and behind her head, according to Bowe.

The lawsuit charges Durnan with gross negligence and reckless conduct, though the filing does not provide specific details about the alleged assault. The complaint seeks damages for wrongful death, personal injuries, conscious pain and suffering, punitive damages, interest, attorneys’ fees, and court costs. If Durnan fails to appear, a default judgment of $50 million plus additional fees could be entered against him.

Bowe stated the family conducted independent investigations, including a second autopsy performed by a well-renowned medical examiner, and has gathered additional evidence. He said Durnan has not contacted the family despite making public statements claiming he was in communication with them, though the family reportedly reached out multiple times without response.

Temporary administrators of Nolan-O’Slatarra’s estate, Elma Geraldine Nolan and Marcello de Peralta, filed the action. Official autopsy results have not been released, and authorities indicated the investigation remains ongoing. Durnan’s attorney, Robert Holdman, has not yet responded to requests for comment.