The family of Irish businesswoman Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra have expressed shock at claims made to US investigators suggesting she was battling brain cancer prior to her death.
Martha, 33, from County Carlow, was discovered dead aboard a yacht docked at the Montauk Yacht Club in East Hampton, Long Island, at around midnight local time last Tuesday. The sudden loss has left loved ones devastated, with her mother, Elma Nolan, telling detectives her daughter was “perfectly healthy” and had not been diagnosed with any such illness.
The alleged brain cancer claim emerged during interviews conducted by US law enforcement officers, but Ms Nolan-O’Slatarra’s family say they have no knowledge of any such condition and have dismissed it outright. Sources close to the investigation confirmed that authorities are now looking into the origin of the statement, as it forms part of the broader inquiry into the circumstances of her death.
Martha was a well-known figure in Carlow’s business community, having worked across several sectors and developed strong professional ties both in Ireland and abroad. Friends described her as “vibrant, ambitious, and full of life,” with no apparent health concerns in recent months.
US detectives are continuing to gather evidence, reviewing CCTV from the marina, interviewing witnesses, and awaiting toxicology results. While the cause of death has yet to be officially confirmed, the investigation remains active.
The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has said it is providing consular assistance to the family, who are now in New York. A spokesperson offered condolences, stating:
“The Department is aware of the case and is engaging with US authorities to ensure the family is fully supported during this extremely difficult time.”
In Carlow, tributes have poured in for Ms Nolan-O’Slatarra, with local representatives and community leaders expressing their sorrow. Cllr Thomas Walsh described her as “a remarkable young woman who represented the best of our local enterprise spirit,” adding that her passing was “a huge loss to the county.”
Authorities in East Hampton have urged anyone with information about Martha’s final movements or any contact with her in the days prior to her death to come forward.
