A fatal helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has claimed the lives of six people, including pop star Oliver Tree. Eyewitnesses have described the 'horrifying' aftermath of the tragedy.
The deadly incident occurred when two helicopters collided mid-air in the Recreio dos Bandeirantes neighborhood. All six individuals aboard the aircraft died. Rio de Janeiro's Military Fire Department confirmed that one helicopter crashed onto the car park of a vehicle dealership, igniting a blaze among electric cars, which was later extinguished.
Eyewitness Accounts
Fernandes de Freitas, a tyre repair worker, recounted witnessing one of the helicopters engulfed in flames after the collision. He also observed a passenger jumping from the other aircraft before it hit the ground. 'It was terrifying, absolutely horrifying,' De Freitas said.
Victims Identified
Argentine streaming channel Blender confirmed that content creator Gaspar Prim Díaz, known as Gaspi, was aboard one of the helicopters. Gaspi, aged 23, had over 2.8 million YouTube followers. Blender expressed condolences on X, stating, 'Thanks for your art, your magic and your sensibility, every one of us will miss you.'
Oliver Tree, a 32-year-old American musician known for his eccentric style, was also among the deceased. He had performed at festivals worldwide, including Exit Festival in Serbia.
Investigation Underway
The Brazilian Air Force announced that investigators from the Third Regional Service for Investigation and Prevention of Aeronautical Accidents (SERIPA III) have been deployed to conduct an initial inquiry. The aircraft involved were registered as PP-MAC and PR-DJJ. The Air Force stated, 'During the Initial Action, qualified professionals apply specific techniques for data collection, preservation of evidence, and gathering information necessary for the investigation.'
Tributes Pour In
YouTube sensation and Britain's Got Talent judge KSI paid tribute on X, writing, '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.'
The cause of the collision remains under investigation as authorities work to determine what led to the tragedy.
