Tanzanian authorities are probing Joe McCann, the founder of Asymmetric, a cryptocurrency investment firm, in connection with the alleged suicide of his fiancée, US social media influencer Ashly Robinson, during their trip to Zanzibar. Robinson, a 31-year-old lifestyle influencer, was found unresponsive in a private villa at the luxury Zuri Zanzibar resort on April 9, where the couple was celebrating her birthday and recent engagement. She was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

According to Zanzibar police, an initial investigation confirmed Robinson's death as a suicide, which they believe was triggered by a 'misunderstanding' between the couple. However, the police have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and as a result, McCann's passport has been withheld.

The couple had been involved in a heated argument before being separated by hotel staff and assigned to separate rooms. The police have questioned McCann and requested that he remain in the country pending the forensic results from Robinson's autopsy.

The hotel has expressed its condolences, stating that it is cooperating fully with the local authorities and the US Embassy. Robinson's family has expressed doubts about the circumstances of her death and has set up a GoFundMe page to cover travel costs, arrangements, and other expenses, exceeding their initial target of $50,000. McCann, with an estimated net worth of $45 million, is a prominent figure in the institutional cryptocurrency space, leading Asymmetric, a hedge fund, and venture firm backed by notable investors, including Andreessen Horowitz co-founders Marc Andreessen and Chris Dixon.

In December, McCann announced the shutdown of Asymmetric's Liquid Alpha Fund following reports of significant financial losses throughout 2025. The couple had traveled to Zanzibar on April 4, according to a statement from Tanzanian police.

Despite attempts to contact Zanzibar police, they refused to provide any information. The Tanzania Police Force has also not responded to email requests for information. The US State Department has offered its condolences to the Robinson family, stating that the safety and security of Americans are a top priority, but due to privacy considerations, they have no further comment.