Ongoing Investigation into Fashion Designer’s Death
More than three months have passed since the body of a Manhattan fashion designer was discovered on a boat at a private yacht club in Long Island, and authorities still have not determined the cause of her death.
Suffolk County police indicated they suspect Martha Nolan-Oslatala, aged 33, may have died from an overdose. This conclusion is based on the absence of any visible signs of foul play and the discovery of a white powdery substance nearby when her unresponsive body was found at the Montauk Yacht Club in early August.
However, officials have not disclosed specifics regarding her cause of death or the nature of the substance. They’ve also denied requests from the media for access to public records related to her autopsy and toxicology findings, stating that such documents are, for some reason, “restricted to certain parties.”
Arthur L. Aidala, an attorney representing Nolan-Oslatala’s family, expressed disappointment, noting that they have not received the complete toxicology report and that the official cause of death remains undetermined. He conveyed confidence that the district attorney’s office is diligently working on the case, aiming to “cross every ‘t’ and dot every ‘i.’
Aidala also challenged the speculation surrounding an overdose, claiming that Nolan-Oslatala was not known to use drugs. “Something doesn’t quite add up here,” he remarked.
“But we’re staying proactive and allowing law enforcement to do their job,” he added, emphasizing the family’s commitment to seeking answers.
Details surrounding Nolan-Oslatala’s final hours remain murky, generating questions about the events leading up to that night. She was discovered unresponsive on a boat named “The Ripple” on August 5, after residents reported loud screams that evening.
Public records indicate the vessel belongs to Chris Durnan, a local business figure known for owning another boat, “Hell in a Bucket,” that is docked in the same area. On the night of her death, Nolan-Oslatala was engaged in a meeting with Durnan to discuss the expansion of her swimwear brand, as reported by a publication.
In a text exchange obtained by the media, Durnan offered to meet with Nolan-Oslatala and her business partner, suggesting, “If you want more money, let’s sit down and talk.”
Interestingly, Durnan was later seen running around the yacht club in an agitated state, reportedly shouting at other boats and throwing sunscreen in an attempt to gain their attention.
He’s known for running an insurance company, The Durnan Group, located in Rockville Center. Despite multiple requests for comment, Durnan has not responded.
The newspaper has appealed the county’s decision to withhold the autopsy and toxicology records, in the hopes of shedding light on this perplexing case.
