Iris Hsieh Cause of Death: Murder Probe Launched After Influencer Found Dead in Malaysian Hotel

Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh, known for her bold social media persona, was found dead in a hotel bathtub in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 22, 2025. The 31-year-old’s sudden death has sparked a murder investigation after new evidence emerged contradicting initial reports of a natural or accidental death.

Authorities confirmed that the case, first classified as a “sudden death,” is now being re-examined as a possible homicide. Hsieh’s death has drawn intense attention across Asia, given her large online following and the involvement of a well-known Malaysian musician at the scene.

Investigation Details in Iris Hsieh’s Death

According to the New Straits Times, Hsieh — whose real name was Hsieh Yu-hsin — was discovered in a bathtub at a hotel on Jalan Conlay, a central area in Kuala Lumpur. Police responded around 1:40 p.m. local time after receiving a distress call from hotel staff. The influencer had checked into the hotel with Namewee (real name Wee Meng Chee), a controversial Malaysian rapper known for provocative lyrics and public clashes with authorities.

Police officer Datuk Fadil Marsus confirmed that the artist was detained on the day of Hsieh’s death for alleged drug possession and use. He was released two days later after pleading not guilty. Officers reportedly found ecstasy pills and other controlled substances, while a subsequent test showed traces of amphetamines, methamphetamine, ketamine, and THC, according to BBC News.

Namewee, 42, has publicly denied drug use and any involvement in Hsieh’s death, saying in a translated Instagram statement that he feels “deeply sorry” for her passing and trusts the investigation to “reveal the truth.” Police have not named him as a suspect, but surveillance footage and witness statements are under review to retrace both individuals’ final movements within the hotel.

“We will re-examine all the victim’s movements and that of the suspect we have identified. We expect to make an arrest soon,” Marsus told the New Straits Times. Toxicology reports and the final autopsy results are still pending, though officials have confirmed no immediate signs of external injury were visible at the scene.

Public Reaction and Broader Context

Hsieh had built a following of more than 547,000 on Instagram by sharing daring stunts and risqué photo shoots. She gained viral fame in 2024 after filming herself removing red underwear inside an IKEA store in Taipei — an act that led to backlash but also increased her notoriety online.

Fans and media outlets across Taiwan and Malaysia have expressed shock and outrage over the circumstances of her death. Social media tributes flooded her posts, while others called for accountability and transparency in the investigation. “She lived on her own terms and didn’t deserve this ending,” one follower wrote under her last photo.

For now, police are continuing to collect forensic evidence, digital data, and hotel surveillance. Malaysian authorities said they will issue a full report once the toxicology analysis is complete. Until then, the cause of Iris Hsieh’s death remains officially undetermined.

The case continues to attract international interest as fans await clarity on whether foul play, drug involvement, or another factor caused the influencer’s tragic end.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Iris Hsieh’s cause of death?

The official cause of death has not been confirmed. Toxicology and autopsy reports are still pending, though police have now classified the case as a murder probe.

Q2: Who was with Iris Hsieh at the time of her death?

She was reportedly with Malaysian rapper Namewee, who was detained for drug-related charges but released on bail. He denies any involvement in her death.

Q3: Where was Iris Hsieh found?

Hsieh was discovered dead in a bathtub inside a hotel on Jalan Conlay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 22, 2025.

Q4: What are police investigating now?

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, hotel staff statements, and forensic evidence to determine whether foul play was involved.

Q5: What is Iris Hsieh known for?

She was a Taiwanese influencer and model known for her daring photo shoots and viral social media stunts, including a controversial IKEA video in 2024.