US musician Oliver Tree was among six individuals presumed dead following a helicopter collision in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday . 32-year-old singer-songwriter,recognized for his viral hits and distinctive style,was on a world tour when tragic accident occurred.
Reports indicate that one of the helicopters involved in the crash plummeted to the ground, landing in a car park and igniting a fire that engulfed around 20 vehicles . Eyewitness footage shared by Brazilian media captured moment one helicopter descended rapidly, followed by thick smoke and flames rising from wreckage .
The Military Fire Department of the State of Rio de Janeiro responded to scene shortly after 09:00 local time (12:00 GMT). An investigation into circumstances surrounding the collision is underway,as authorities seek to determine the cause of this devastating event.
Among the passengers on the helicopter with Tree were Argentine content creator Gaspar Prim Diaz,known as Gaspi,and several others, including Lucas Brito Chaves,Lucas Vignale,and pilot Alexandre Souza. The second helicopter's crew manifest lists only its pilot, Charles Marsillac.
Born Oliver Tree Nickell in Santa Cruz, California,in 1993,Tree gained fame in 2016 through social media platforms. He was celebrated for his unique bowl haircut and catchy songs,including "Life Goes On," "Miss You," and "Alien Boy." His most recent performance took place in São Paulo,Brazil,on June 6, with upcoming shows scheduled in Lisbon, Glasgow, Manchester, and London.
Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow artists alike. YouTuber KSI,who collaborated with Tree on the track "Voices," expressed his shock and sorrow on social media. He wrote,"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." KSI added that Tree would always be remembered as a legend.
Another heartfelt tribute came from Steve-O, star of "Jackass," who shared a photo of himself with Tree. He reflected on their friendship, stating,"I was incredibly lucky to become friends with Oliver Tree. He would check in on me regularly, and let me know he cared about how I was doing. Such great person... I'm going to miss him."
Tree's contributions to music were recognized with a nomination for a Brit Award in 2024 for his song "Miss You," a collaboration with German producer Robin Schulz. In 2020,he also made headlines for breaking the Guinness World Record for constructing the largest kick scooter, measuring 4.16 meters tall and 3.13 meters long.
The loss of Oliver Tree resonates deeply within the music community and among his fans,as they mourn the passing of a talented artist whose impact was felt far beyond his years.
