Crypto Manager Questioned After Influencer’s Death in Zanzibar

Zanzibar police are investigating the April 9 death of 31-year-old U.S. influencer Ashly Robinson. Officers report Robinson was found unresponsive at a resort on the island and later died at a hospital.

Robinson had been traveling with her fiancé, Joe McCann, a crypto fund manager and founder of Asymmetric Financial. Investigators say the couple argued and were staying in separate rooms before she was discovered. McCann has been questioned and authorities have retained his passport to ensure he remains in Zanzibar while forensic tests proceed. He has not been charged with a crime.

Police described Robinson's death as a suicide and referred to a “misunderstanding,” but they also stated the inquiry remains open. Officials have not released medical or forensic findings and have not provided a timetable for laboratory results.

Robinson's family disputes the official account. Her sister told relatives that Robinson appeared happy in the days before her death and had recently celebrated her birthday and engagement. Family members have asked authorities for more details about how Robinson became unresponsive and why she was taken to the hospital.

McCann is known in crypto markets as the founder of Asymmetric Financial, a hedge fund and venture firm focused on digital assets. Public records and industry reports show the firm's liquid fund arm was wound down late last year after reported losses. Authorities have not connected McCann's business activities or digital assets to Robinson's death.

Investigators are collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and awaiting toxicology and other lab tests that could clarify cause and timing. Officials have indicated the inquiry will continue until forensic results and witness statements can be reviewed.