What Happened to Oliver Tree? What to Know About the Helicopter Crash

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The music world is mourning the loss of Oliver Tree, who was among six people killed in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro on June 14th. He was 32 years old.

According to officials, two helicopters collided mid-air and crashed into the parking lot of a car dealership, igniting at least 20 vehicles. One helicopter had five people on board, and the other had one – all perished in the crash. Authorities are working to officially identify the victims.

The cause of the accident is currently under investigation. More information about Oliver Tree and the crash can be found below.

Who Was Oliver Tree?

Oliver Tree Nickell, born in 1993 and raised in Santa Cruz, California, discovered his passion for music early on. He first gained attention in 2013 with his EP, Demons, which included a popular cover of Radiohead’s “Karma Police.” In 2016, he went viral again with the songs “Forget It” (with Getter) and “When I’m Down” (with Whethan).

Soon after, he signed with Atlantic Records and released the EP Alien Boy, followed by albums like Ugly Is Beautiful, Cowboy Tears, and Alone in a Crowd, as well as hit songs such as “Miss You” and “Life Goes On.” His most recent album, Love You Madly Hate You Badly, came out in April 2026, and he began a world tour in May, including a stop in São Paulo, Brazil on June 6.

Tree is also known for creating distinctive and often outlandish personas. In a 2023 interview with Billboard, he explained that his unconventional image unexpectedly gained him more attention than his music. He believes it reflects society’s current state, noting that while things may seem silly, experimentation is important for innovation and creating something new.

How Did Oliver Tree Die?

Brazilian news source CNN Brazil, referencing information from the Civil Police, reports that singer Tree was one of six people who died in a helicopter crash. The Rio de Janeiro Military Department responded to the incident at approximately 9:00 a.m. on June 14th, after it occurred on Avenida das Américas in the Recreio dos Bandeirantes neighborhood.

According to the fire department, two helicopters collided mid-air and crashed into the parking lot of a car dealership, igniting at least 20 vehicles. Sadly, six people died in the accident and their bodies were transported to the Afrânio Peixoto Forensic Medical Institute in Rio de Janeiro.

According to police statements to the Associated Press, while Tree was listed as a passenger with aviation officials, authorities haven’t yet been able to identify the remains of those on board.

Who Else Besides Oliver Tree Died in the Helicopter Crash?

Although officials haven’t yet confirmed the victims’ identities, CNN Brazil reported that one helicopter carried four passengers and a pilot, while the other had just a pilot. Among those on board the first helicopter was Gaspi, a content creator from Argentina, along with another individual named Tree. The Argentine streaming channel Blender also confirmed that Gaspi (whose full name is Gaspar Prim Díaz) was among the passengers, according to the AP.

Who Has Paid Tribute to Oliver Tree?

Zedd shared an old photo with Oliver Tree, writing, “Rest easy, brother.” Getter also honored Tree, describing him as “the definition of a best friend.”

Getter explained that they both started making music around the same time and supported each other throughout their careers. He shared on Instagram that even before their musical connection, Oliver was a wonderful friend who always made time for him, no matter how busy he was. Getter fondly remembered countless stories from their teenage years, working hard to succeed in music, and how Oliver made the journey more enjoyable by appreciating the small moments.

Getter recalled how Tree helped him through difficult times and was a source of light in his life. He concluded with a heartfelt message, “I love you and I wouldn’t be where I am today without you, brother. Oliver Tree forever.”

Musician Melanie Martinez shared her devastation after hearing the news, describing herself as being completely heartbroken. In a post on Instagram on June 14th, she reflected on how difficult it was to process the loss of someone she’d shared such a significant period of her life with. She admired his dedication to his art and believed everyone who knew him would fondly remember the joy and laughter he brought to those around him, noting his infectious and warm laugh.

Martinez also highlighted how inspiring Tree’s ability to lead with creativity and take initiative while still maintaining a sense of childlike wonder. She described him as having a kind heart and being a true artist, and concluded with a heartfelt farewell, expressing her hope that he was still bringing joy wherever he was and wondering what creative projects he might be working on in heaven. She sent him all her love.

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2026-06-15 21:17