Joe McCann, the founder of crypto investment firm Asymmetric, has become the focus of an official investigation in Tanzania after the death of his fiancée, prominent US social media influencer Ashly Robinson, in Zanzibar. The tragedy occurred while the couple were staying at a luxury resort to celebrate Robinson’s birthday and their recent engagement.
Incident details and investigation progress
Ashly Robinson, a 31-year-old content creator from Miami known online as Ashlee Jenae, was discovered unconscious in a private villa at the Zuri Zanzibar resort on April 9. Rushed to the hospital, she could not be revived despite all medical efforts. Zanzibar police initially deemed her death a suicide following a “dispute” after an argument between the couple.
According to local police, resort staff had twice intervened after altercations between the couple, separating them and placing them in different rooms. However, the definitive cause of Robinson’s death has yet to be determined as the results of the medical examination are still pending. During this process, police confiscated Joe McCann’s passport, instructed him to remain in the country, and recorded his testimony.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic event. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Robinson family and their loved ones. We are cooperating fully with local authorities and the US Embassy,” stated Zuri Zanzibar resort’s management.
Family doubts and public support
Robinson’s family have expressed skepticism over the suicide claims, stating they do not believe she took her own life. They have called for a thorough investigation via social media and other platforms. The family also launched a fundraising campaign with a $50,000 target to support travel to Tanzania and manage unforeseen expenses, which has since surpassed its goal.
Police in Zanzibar maintain that the investigation is ongoing, noting that they have yet to respond to media inquiries. The US State Department has not issued any fresh statements but expressed their condolences and confirmed they are closely monitoring the case.
Controversy at crypto fund
Joe McCann is a well-known figure in institutional crypto investing. His company Asymmetric has attracted support from prominent backers, including Marc Andreessen and Chris Dixon, founders of Andreessen Horowitz. McCann’s personal fortune is estimated at approximately $45 million.
In late 2023, McCann announced the closure of Asymmetric’s Liquid Alpha Fund, a move that drew attention against the backdrop of unconfirmed social media reports suggesting a 78% loss in the fund for 2025.
Local police reported that the couple arrived in Zanzibar on April 4. Since the incident, authorities have closely monitored McCann’s status within the country.
Efforts by CoinDesk to reach Zanzibar police for comment by phone have gone unanswered, and email requests for information have also received no response.
The US State Department emphasized that they could only offer condolences at this stage and are supporting the Robinson family.
