Nationwide — Ashlee Jenae, a 31-year-old African American influencer found dead on a luxury trip in Tanzania with fiancé Joe McCann, was confirmed to have died by suicide. Authorities in Zanzibar concluded the investigation, citing mental distress.
According to People, investigators in Zanzibar concluded their probe in April. The Criminal Investigation Department worked with the Zanzibar Police Force and determined the cause of death after reviewing evidence. She was pronounced dead at a hospital on April 9.
Authorities initially drew attention to the case after questioning fiancé Joe McCann during the early stages of the investigation. Police temporarily held his travel documents while they reviewed the circumstances surrounding Ashlee Jenae’s death in Zanzibar. He was not accused of any wrongdoing.
Ashlee Jenae, whose legal name is Ashly Robinson, built an online following of about 88,000 on Instagram. She shared lifestyle content from Portland, Oregon, often posting travel moments, daily life updates, and photos with McCann, including their recent engagement.
On May 5, McCann posted a statement on X addressing her death. He expressed grief and described the loss as a tragedy, saying Jenae played a major role in his life and had strong relationships with his children.
Her family announced her death on April 12. They later set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs and travel expenses. The fundraiser has since raised more than $64,000.