Globally acclaimed singer Oliver Tree tragically died in a helicopter crash on Sunday, June 14, at just 32 years old. Brazilian authorities confirmed that the American artist was among the fatalities after two helicopters collided above an electric vehicle facility in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday morning.
Details of the Accident
The aircraft carrying Oliver Tree Nickel was discovered in the city's Southwest district. Also named among the deceased are Lucas Vignale, Gaspar Prim, Lucas Brito Chaves, and pilots Alexandre Souza and Charles Marsillac. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision.
Rio de Janeiro's Military Fire Department reported that one helicopter crashed onto a car dealership where numerous electric vehicles were stationed, sparking a blaze that firefighters subsequently extinguished. While Tree appeared on the passenger manifest provided to aviation officials, police have yet to formally identify the remains of those who perished.
Tributes from Fans and Celebrities
Fans have shared tributes on social media. One person said: "So heartbroken. Thank you for everything, Oliver Tree. RIP." Another added: "Rest In Peace Oliver Tree, he was a great man with a great singing voice, he was only 32 and didn't deserve to leave yet." A fan commented: "Actually was so shocked I had to genuinely let it process for a moment that he actually died and that it wasn't just a skit or joke of his like he used to. His personality and music genuinely helped younger me during covid, rip Oliver Tree."
YouTuber KSI, who collaborated with Tree on the track Voices, wrote on X: "Can't believe I'm actually having to type this. You're 32 man. You should still be here. You still had so much life to live. So much music to make. So much content to make. You're a legend and will always be a legend. Still doesn't feel real. Genuinely feel sick. I love you bro."
Dutch DJ and producer Oliver Heldens, a close friend, posted a photograph of the two together in Tokyo, writing: "I can not believe it... Rest in peace brother, you were one of a kind and you'll be truly missed @olivertree. See you again in another life."
Oliver Tree's Career and Legacy
Oliver Tree first came to public attention at just 17 years old, working alongside Skrillex and Zeds Dead under the pseudonym Tree. Three years later, he released his debut independent record, Spilling Branches, and joined the band Irony as lead vocalist and guitarist. He signed with R&S Records, which released his EP Demons in August 2013, drawing praise from Radiohead's Thom Yorke for his interpretation of Karma Police.
Despite early achievements, Tree put his career on hold to study music technology at the California Institute of the Arts. He returned to music in 2016, collaborating with rapper Getter on the track Forget It. In 2024, he received a nomination for the Brit Award for International Song alongside German producer Robin Schulz for their track Miss You, which reached number three on the UK singles chart.
Tree had been touring South America as part of his The World's First Tour, intending to perform on all seven continents. He performed in Buenos Aires, Argentina on June 4, and posted a video on Instagram on June 13 playing football in a Brazilian neighborhood. He had been scheduled to headline more than 70 shows across 30 countries, including the UK, with dates in Glasgow, Manchester, and London in September.
