ZANZIBAR, Tanzania — Police in Zanzibar are questioning the fiancé of American social media influencer Ashly Robinson, as investigations into her death continue.
Robinson, popularly known as Ashlee Jenae, died on April 10 while on holiday in Zanzibar, where she had travelled with her fiancé, Joe McCann. The couple had reportedly become engaged just six days earlier during their stay on the islands.
Details of the ongoing questioning were confirmed on Tuesday, April 14, by North Unguja Regional Police Commander Benedict Mapujira in remarks to a local publication.
The police chief said investigators were continuing to interview individuals connected to the case as part of efforts to determine whether any criminal activity was involved.
“We must question hotel staff, and her fiancé on everything, so that later on, we can reach a conclusion on whether there was a crime or not,” he said, adding that Mr McCann is still being questioned.
When asked whether the fiancé was being held, Commander Mapujira said, “You know when you are assisting the police, you are somewhat restricted; even if you have freedom, once you are told you are assisting the police, it is not easy.”
Authorities say forensic examinations are continuing, including further analysis to establish the exact cause of death. Officials indicated that additional medical assessments are being conducted, particularly focusing on injuries to the head.
Police also noted that cases involving foreign nationals typically require coordination with diplomatic representatives. In such situations, the relevant embassy may appoint an official to observe proceedings and support communication with the deceased’s family.
In an earlier statement, the Zanzibar Police Force said Robinson had initially been found alive and taken to hospital, where she later died.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, with investigators working to reconcile timelines and establish what happened in the final hours before her death.
Robinson’s mother, Ms Yolanda Denise, said details surrounding her daughter’s death remain uncertain. She noted that Robinson had travelled to Zanzibar to celebrate her birthday with her fiancé before the incident occurred.
She added that communication from the fiancé had been limited following the incident, with the family receiving confirmation of the death through the hotel rather than directly.
Zuri Zanzibar Hotel said it is cooperating with authorities and the US Embassy, expressing condolences to the family.
Government officials have urged patience as investigations continue.
Acting Minister for Tourism and Antiquities Mudrick Ramadhan Soraga said authorities would wait for the outcome of forensic inquiries before issuing further statements.
“So we have no further comment. Investigations are ongoing; let us wait for experts to present an official report,” he said.
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The minister added that the government is working closely with security agencies and the US Embassy to manage the situation and reassure visitors.
“We receive many visitors, and such incidents are not common. What we are doing is ensuring we obtain sufficient information on what happened and that our visitors continue to be safe. Our major responsibility is to ensure security is fully maintained,” he said.
The case has drawn attention both locally and internationally, highlighting the complexities that can arise when incidents involving foreign nationals occur in major tourist destinations.
Zanzibar remains a key tourism hub in East Africa, receiving thousands of international visitors annually, with authorities keen to maintain confidence in safety and security while ensuring a thorough investigation.
