Oliver Tree dies in helicopter crash in Brazil

American musician and internet personality Oliver Tree has died in a helicopter crash in Brazil at the age of 32, according to multiple international media reports.

According to reporting by The Guardian, two helicopters collided over Rio de Janeiro on Sunday morning before crashing in the city’s western zone, killing all six people on board. The publication reported that Tree was among the victims.

Fatal crash under investigation

According to the Associated Press, Rio de Janeiro’s Military Fire Department said one of the helicopters crashed into the parking area of a car dealership, where several electric vehicles caught fire following the impact. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision.

Police told the Associated Press that Tree was listed among the passengers on one of the helicopters, although formal identification procedures were initially ongoing due to the severity of the crash.

Reports indicate that one helicopter was carrying five people while the second aircraft carried only its pilot. There were no survivors.

A career built on music, humour and internet culture

Born Oliver Tree Nickell, the singer rose to international fame through a blend of alternative pop, electronic music, satire and performance art. His distinctive bowl-cut hairstyle, oversized outfits and unconventional music videos helped him build a loyal global following.

Tree was best known for tracks including Life Goes On, Miss You and Alien Boy. His music regularly blended humour, social commentary and viral internet culture, helping him amass millions of followers across social media platforms.

According to reports, Tree had more than 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify and millions of followers across social media.

World tour cut short

Tree was in South America as part of a world tour at the time of the accident. According to media reports, his most recent performance took place in São Paulo on 6 June, with additional international dates scheduled in the coming months.

Tributes have begun pouring in from fans and fellow artists across the world as news of his death spreads.

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