Authorities are investigating the death of Mohamed Coulibaly, 24, who was found deceased in a swimming pool on Friday in Harrison Township, New Jersey. Police responded to the residence for a welfare check after concerns were raised about his well-being, according to ABC Eyewitness News.
Coulibaly was identified in a July 15 Barron's investigation as the alleged leader of a scheme targeting professional athletes with fraudulent investment opportunities in fake Shopify stores. Former New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder reportedly became a victim after being introduced to Coulibaly through a mutual acquaintance. Additionally, three former NFL players collectively reported losing over $1 million through investments facilitated by Coulibaly, who was described as being from Philadelphia.
According to Barron's, athletes and other investors were persuaded to purchase stakes in e-commerce shops that appeared to be successful. The publication reported that transaction data was manually entered by individuals with backend access to these stores, creating the illusion of profitable investments. Coulibaly had denied the allegations to Barron's.
No criminal charges have been filed in connection with Coulibaly.