Tanzanian authorities are investigating the death of Ashly Robinson, a 31-year-old US lifestyle influencer, who was found unresponsive in a luxury resort in Zanzibar, where she was vacationing with her fiancé, Joe McCann, founder of the crypto investment firm Asymmetric. The incident occurred on April 9, during a trip to celebrate Robinson's birthday and recent engagement.
According to reports, Robinson and McCann had a heated argument before being separated by hotel staff. Despite the initial confirmation of her death as a suicide, the police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding her passing. As a result, McCann's passport has been withheld, and he has been asked to remain in the country pending the outcome of the investigation.
The hotel where the couple was staying has expressed its condolences and is cooperating fully with the authorities. Robinson's family has expressed doubts about the official cause of death and has set up a fundraising page to cover travel costs and other expenses.
McCann, who has an estimated net worth of $45 million, is a prominent figure in the crypto industry, having led Asymmetric, a hedge fund and venture firm backed by notable investors. In a recent development, McCann announced the shutdown of Asymmetric's Liquid Alpha Fund following reports of significant financial losses. The couple's trip to Zanzibar began on April 4, according to a statement from the Tanzanian police.
Efforts to contact the Zanzibar police for comment have been unsuccessful, with the US State Department offering its condolences to the Robinson family but declining to provide further information due to privacy considerations.