American Singer Oliver Tree Killed in Helicopter Crash Over Rio

Fri Jun 19 2026 08:21:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Alt‑pop star Oliver Tree dies along with five others when his helicopter collides with another over Rio de Janeiro. Investigation underway.

The 32‑year‑old alt‑pop musician who rose to fame with hits like "Life Goes On" and "Alien Boy" perished in a collision between two helicopters off Rio de Janeiro. The accident, which started a blaze in the showroom parking lot, took the lives of the musician, an Argentine content creator, and the flight crews. Authorities have begun a formal investigation, while fans and fellow artists have paid tribute to the artist’s talent and personality.

American Singer Oliver Tree Killed in Helicopter Crash Over Rio

The alt‑pop artist Oliver Tree (born Oliver Tree Nickell) lost his life when the helicopter he was aboard collided with another over Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, killing all six passengers on both aircraft. The crash, described by witnesses as a sudden impact, ignited a blaze that engulfed a car‑park lot and set approximately 20 vehicles ablaze.

Tree, who was 32, was in the midst of a world tour. His latest performance in São Paulo ended on June 6, and he was slated to perform in Lisbon, Portugal, on July 1, before adding shows in Glasgow, Manchester and London later in the year.

Among the passengers was Argentine YouTuber Gaspar Prim Diaz (aka Gaspi), as well as pilot and crew members Lucas Brito Chaves, Lucas Vignale and pilot Alexandre Souza. The second aircraft’s manifest listed only its pilot, Charles Marsillac.

Video footage released by Brazilian media shows a helicopter descending, flames erupting, and smoke billowing from the crash site. The Military Fire Department of Rio de Janeiro responded around 09:00 local time (12:00 GMT).

After the fatal accident, fellow artist and YouTuber KSI, who collaborated with Tree on the track "Voices," posted a heartfelt tribute on X: “'Can’t believe I have to type this. 32-man. You should still be here. So much music and content to make.”” These condolences were echoed by Jackass star Steve‑O, who shared a photo of the two on social media and lamented their friendship.

Tree had earned a reputation for his distinct bowl haircut and eclectic style. He had recently broken a Guinness World Record in 2020 for building the largest kick scooter (0.16 m tall, 3.13 m long). In 2024, he was nominated for a Brit Award for his single "Miss you" alongside German producer Robin Schulz. Hundreds of fans and fellow musicians remain stunned by his untimely loss.