Joe McCann, the founder of Asymmetric, a cryptocurrency investment firm, is at the center of a probe by Tanzanian authorities following the death of his fiancée, Ashly Robinson, a 31-year-old lifestyle influencer from Miami. The couple had been celebrating Robinson's birthday and their recent engagement at the luxury Zuri Zanzibar resort when she was found unresponsive in a private villa on April 9. Local police initially confirmed that Robinson's death was a result of suicide, stemming from a 'misunderstanding' between the couple.
However, they are still investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. According to reports, the couple had a heated argument, which led to them being separated by hotel staff on two occasions. Despite the initial findings, police have retained McCann's passport and have asked him to stay in the country pending the outcome of Robinson's autopsy.
The hotel has expressed its condolences and is cooperating fully with the local authorities and the US Embassy. Robinson's family has expressed doubts about the official cause of death and has set up a GoFundMe page, which has exceeded its target of $50,000 to cover travel costs and other expenses.
McCann, who has an estimated net worth of $45 million, is a well-known figure in the crypto industry, having founded Asymmetric, which is backed by prominent investors, including Andreessen Horowitz co-founders Marc Andreessen and Chris Dixon. The incident has raised questions, particularly given McCann's recent decision to shut down Asymmetric's Liquid Alpha Fund due to significant financial losses in 2025.
The US State Department has offered its condolences to Robinson's family but has declined to comment further on the investigation, citing privacy considerations.