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Partner's passport withheld in Zanzibar death investigation
Tanzanian police have retained the passport of Joe McCann, the partner of American influencer Ashly Robinson, who died last week on the islands of Zanzibar. Authorities confirmed McCann is assisting as a witness, with no charges filed.
Timeline of events
Robinson, 31, known online as Ashlee Jenae, was found unconscious in her villa at the Zuri Zanzibar resort late last Wednesday. Hotel staff alerted police after concerns she may have attempted self-harm. She was rushed to hospital but died the following day, 9 April.
Zanzibar's North Unguja police chief, Benedict Mapujira, told the BBC that hotel management had separated the couple into different rooms after a reported argument. The hotel, however, declined to confirm these details, citing privacy and the ongoing investigation.
Family seeks answers
In an interview with CBS News, Robinson's parents described their daughter as vibrant and joyful, having just celebrated her birthday and become engaged during the trip. "She was a light," her mother, Yolanda Endres, said. "We don't understand how this could happen."
The family said McCann contacted them 11 hours after the incident with limited information. They later learned of Robinson's death from the hotel, not authorities.
Official statements and next steps
Zanzibar police stated investigations are ongoing, pending a medical examination report. The US State Department confirmed Robinson's death, emphasizing its commitment to the safety of American citizens abroad. The Zuri Zanzibar resort expressed condolences and said it is cooperating with Tanzanian authorities and the US embassy.
"We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident involving one of our guests."
Zuri Zanzibar statement
Social media tributes
Robinson's Instagram page has been flooded with condolence messages from followers. Days before her death, she shared photos from the trip, including a visit to a zoo in Tanzania's Kilimanjaro region.
