Killer Of NYC Artist At Ritzy Hamptons Spa Confessed Before His Own Suicide

A suspect who confessed to killing 33-year-old Brooklyn artist Sabina Khorramdel–Rosas at a luxury Hamptons resort died by suicide shortly afterward.

Authorities identified the suspect as 56-year-old Thomas Gannon, a flooring contractor with Majestic Tile, Granite and Flooring. Police discovered him dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at his home in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.

“The decedent confessed to committing the homicide immediately prior to taking his own life,” the press release said.

Wayne County Coroner Edward R. Howell and Deputy Coroner Carol R. Lienert arrived on scene at 11:09 p.m., where Pennsylvania State Police were already present. Upon entering the residence, Howell examined the deceased male and pronounced him dead at 11:12 p.m. on Oct. 29.

Howell told the Tri-County Independent, “I confirmed the confession by reading a message the decedent sent to a family member prior to his death.”

Newsweek reached out to the Wayne County Coroner, however they said, “We have no further information.”

The Relationship

Gannon killed Khorramdel–Rosas at the Shou Sugi Ban House on Oct. 28. Around 12:30 p.m.

Astaff member discovered Khorramdel–Rosas’ body in one of the resort’s thirteen guest studios, prompting Southampton Town Police to respond to the scene at 337 Montauk Highway.

Investigators determined the artist was a victim of violence and the relationship between the two was “domestic in nature.”

This means the relationship involved individuals who were in a close, personal bond, typically within the same household. This often refers to family members, romantic partners or people who live together, indicating any incidents or conflicts occurred within a personal or home setting, rather than in a public or professional relationship.

The New York Times reported Gannon had been Khorramdel–Rosas’ boyfriend and benefactor since 2021, as confirmed by Elizabeth Phillips, her mentor and former art professor at the State University of New York at Purchase.

They traveled to Pennsylvania and New York City, where they stayed in upscale hotels in trendy neighborhoods like the East Village—at Khorramdel–Rosas’ request and Gannon’s expense, according to Phillips. Before long, they were jet-setting around the globe, often visiting wellness retreats such as yoga and meditation centers on trips funded by Gannon.

The mentor urged Khorramdel–Rosas to apply for grants to reduce her reliance on Gannon’s financial support, and the young artist revealed she intended to break up with him earlier this year.

Newsweek reached out to Phillips, however, she has not yet responded.

Khorramdel–Rosas split her time between Dushanbe and New York, building on her background in sound art from Purchase College SUNY.

Dushanbe is the capital city of Tajikistan, a country in Central Asia. It’s located in the western part of the country, along the Varzob River, and serves as Tajikistan’s political, economic and cultural center.

Inspired by Pauline Oliveros’ sonic meditations, she developed a deep-listening practice leading her to create intuitive, closed-eye drawings, transcending analytical thought and channeling inner energy, according to her website.

Khorramdel–Rosas recently turned 33-years-old, stating on GoFundMe, “I can’t help but chuckle at the fact that 33 is often associated with the age of Jesus when he made his ultimate sacrifice. While I’m not planning anything dramatic, I see this year as a turning point in my life.”

According to the now-removed GoFundMe created by the artist, she had planned to travel to Portugal in November for her first art residency.

“This experience will allow me to create new work in a beautiful, inspiring environment. I’ll also launch my artist website to create the perfect digital space to showcase my art,” Khorramdel–Rosas wrote.

Gannon contributed $1,000—the largest donation—expressing, “You have an amazing gift, and soon the whole world will see it. I love you.”

What is the Shou Sugi Ban House?

The Shou Sugi Ban House is a luxury wellness retreat located in Water Mill, New York, in the Hamptons. Named after the traditional Japanese technique of shou sugi ban where wood is charred to enhance its durability and beauty, the retreat reflects minimalist design principles and offers a range of holistic health experiences.

It includes spa services, wellness workshops, and personalized retreats combining nutrition, movement, and mindfulness. The property emphasizes natural elements, with a serene landscape and Japanese-inspired architecture. Its focus on tranquility and natural aesthetics, combined with Eastern and Western wellness practices, creates a distinctive retreat experience for guests seeking a restorative escape.

A stay at the Shou Sugi Ban House generally starts at $1,000 to $1,250 per night, depending on the time of year, room type—custom or couples stay—and any additional wellness packages included.

The retreat offers various packages and personalized programs that can increase the rate, particularly if they include spa treatments, wellness sessions and meals curated by their culinary team.

Newsweek reached out to the Shou Sugi Ban House, however, they have not yet responded.

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