Montreal’s crypto community is reeling after the tragic discovery of Kevin Mirshahi’s body, a prominent local influencer who was abducted in June. Mirshahi, a known figure in the digital asset space, was reported missing following his abduction from a Montreal condo on June 21. He, along with three others, was reportedly taken by unknown assailants.
While the others managed to escape, Mirshahi remained missing until October 30, when a passerby found his decomposing remains in Île-de-la-Visitation park. An autopsy later confirmed his identity, according to The Gazette.
Mirshahi, only 25, had previously operated a private crypto investment company, “Crypto Paradise Island,” which had drawn attention in the Montreal area. Notably, Mirshahi had run into legal issues, with Québec’s Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) banning him from acting as a broker or investment adviser in 2021. Just two weeks after his abduction, the AMF further restricted his activities, reinforcing an earlier order to cease social media activity related to financial advice.
Linking Crypto Crimes to Broader Industry Risks
The recent uptick in violent crimes involving crypto influencers and executives has raised alarms within the industry. Last week, another high-profile case involved WonderFi’s CEO, Dean Skurka, who was allegedly abducted and released after paying a $720,000 ransom. The Mirshahi case echoes these violent events, where vast sums of cryptocurrency and digital assets are increasingly linked to ransom and kidnap attempts.
Montreal police arrested Joanie Lepage, 32, in connection with Mirshahi’s murder. While details remain scarce, local sources suggest Lepage may have connections to Mirshahi’s business, though her specific involvement with Crypto Paradise Island remains unclear. Some individuals have alleged online that Mirshahi may have been involved in dubious activities, with a few claiming he scammed them in the past.
Crypto-Related Abduction Cases
Mirshahi’s tragic end is one of several recent instances where crypto professionals have been targeted. In Ukraine, a Bitcoiner was reportedly kidnapped and murdered by a gang aiming to steal $170,000 in Bitcoin, while in Malaysia, six individuals were charged with the abduction of a Chinese national, demanding $1 million in Tether as ransom.
As the investigation into Mirshahi’s death continues, his story has become a dark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can accompany crypto wealth and online notoriety. His untimely death not only shocked those close to him but has also underscored the importance of regulatory oversight and the need for security in the cryptocurrency space.
The post Crypto Influencer’s Body Found in Montreal Park Months After Mysterious Abduction appeared first on TheCoinrise.com.