Police arrived at the Shou Sugi Ban House, a luxury wellness retreat in Water Mill, to find a woman dead under suspicious circumstances in a guest room. The victim’s name and cause of death were not immediately released pending results from an autopsy. The Southampton town police were the first to respond, and when they suspected foul play, they called in the Suffolk County police for assistance. A mobile crime lab was seen outside the property for hours, and Suffolk police confirmed that the victim had met a violent end. Anyone with information on the case was asked to contact the Suffolk County Homicide Squad.
The Shou Sugi Ban House was founded in 2019 by Amy Cherry-Abitbol as the Hamptons’ first high-end wellness retreat. Inspired by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which embraces nature and finds beauty in imperfection, the retreat has received top ratings from Condé Nast Traveler for the last four years. Cherry-Abitbol partnered with Noma co-founder and Michelin-starred chef Mads Refslund for the food at the retreat. Rooms at the Shou Sugi Ban House cost upwards of $1,000 a night, reflecting its luxury status as a sought-after destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness.
The victim’s death at the Shou Sugi Ban House has left many questions unanswered as investigators continue their work to determine what happened. The emotional toll of such cases was highlighted by a forensic investigator from a hit true crime docuseries. The spa did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and few details were available about the incident. The Suffolk County police confirmed that the victim had met a violent end, but did not provide further information. The case remains under investigation, and anyone with information was urged to come forward.
The secluded property spread across three acres in Water Mill, about 95 miles from New York City, was the setting for the tragic incident. The Shou Sugi Ban House, with its 13 villas and Japan-inspired design, offers guests a luxurious retreat focused on wellness and relaxation. Founded by Amy Cherry-Abitbol, the retreat has garnered praise for its commitment to nature and imperfection, drawing guests seeking a unique and high-end experience. The partnership with chef Mads Refslund highlights the retreat’s dedication to providing top-notch food and relaxation for its guests.
The discovery of the deceased woman at the Shou Sugi Ban House has cast a shadow over the luxury wellness retreat, known for its high-end amenities and focus on Japanese-inspired relaxation. The investigation into the suspicious circumstances surrounding the woman’s death is ongoing, with authorities working to piece together what happened. The Suffolk County police have asked for anyone with information to come forward. The incident highlights the challenges faced by forensic investigators in dealing with such cases, as well as the need for answers to bring closure to the victim’s family and loved ones.
The tragic death at the Shou Sugi Ban House has shaken the community and raised questions about safety and security at luxury wellness retreats. The incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of seeking justice for those who have been wronged. The case remains under investigation, with authorities working diligently to uncover the truth behind the victim’s violent end. As guests and staff at the Shou Sugi Ban House come to terms with the tragedy, the community awaits answers and closure in the wake of the shocking discovery. The retreat’s reputation as a top destination for relaxation and wellness may be forever changed by the events that unfolded, leaving a lasting impact on all those involved.
