Joe McCann, the founder of a cryptocurrency investment firm called Asymmetric, is currently under investigation by Tanzanian authorities following the alleged suicide of his fiancée, Ashly Robinson, a US lifestyle influencer, during their trip to Zanzibar. The 31-year-old influencer, also known as Ashlee Jenae, was found unresponsive in a private villa at the luxury resort Zuri Zanzibar on April 9, where the couple was celebrating her birthday and their recent engagement.
She was later pronounced dead at a hospital. According to reports from Zanzibar police, Robinson's death was confirmed as a suicide resulting from a 'misunderstanding' between the couple. However, the police have stated that they are still investigating her death. It has been reported that the couple had a heated argument before being separated by hotel staff and sent to different rooms.
Despite the initial confirmation of suicide, the police have withheld McCann's passport and have asked him to remain in the country until the forensic results from Robinson's autopsy are received. 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 cause of her death and has set up a GoFundMe page to cover travel costs, arrangements, and other unexpected expenses. They have exceeded their target of $50,000. McCann, who has an estimated net worth of $45 million, is a well-known figure in the crypto industry, having led Asymmetric, a hedge fund and venture firm backed by prominent investors. In December, he announced the shutdown of Asymmetric's Liquid Alpha Fund following reports of significant financial losses throughout 2025.
The couple traveled to Zanzibar on April 4, according to a statement from Tanzanian police. The US State Department has offered its condolences to the Robinson family but has declined to comment further on the investigation.