Oliver Tree Reportedly Dies in Brazil Helicopter Crash at Age 32, Authorities Investigating

American singer, songwriter, and internet personality Oliver Tree has reportedly died at the age of 32 following a helicopter collision in Rio de Janeiro, according to reports from Brazilian media citing local authorities.

CNN Brasil, citing the Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro, reported that two helicopters collided in the air over the southwest zone of the city on Sunday morning. The crash reportedly occurred above an electrical vehicle yard and resulted in the deaths of all six people involved.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision.

Oliver Tree Among Six Reported Victims

According to local outlet Metrópoles, Oliver Tree was traveling aboard one of the helicopters alongside passengers Lucas Vignale, Gaspar Prim, Lucas Brito Chaves, and pilot Alexandre Souza. The second helicopter was reportedly piloted solely by Charles Marsillac.

Among the reported victims was Argentine YouTube personality Gaspi (Gasper Gaspar Prim).

Officials have not yet released final findings regarding the circumstances that led to the accident.

A Unique Voice in Modern Music

Born Oliver Tree Nickell on June 29, 1993, in Santa Cruz, California, Tree built a global following through his distinctive blend of alternative rock, pop, electronic music, hip-hop, and comedy.

He first gained recognition during the early 2010s while performing under the name Tree, collaborating with artists including Skrillex and Zeds Dead. His independent album Splitting Branches was released in 2013 before he stepped away briefly to study music technology.

Tree later returned to music and achieved mainstream success after his collaboration with producer Whethan on the viral track "When I'm Down."

The Rise of the Oliver Tree Persona

Oliver Tree became known not only for his music but also for his instantly recognizable visual identity.

Fans associated him with:

• His signature bowl haircut

• Oversized JNCO-style pants

• Neon windbreakers and retro sunglasses

• The eccentric "Turbo" character

• Extreme stunt performances and scooter riding

His unconventional style helped him become one of the most recognizable figures in alternative and internet culture.

Major Albums and Global Hits

Tree's major-label breakthrough came with the Alien Boy EP in 2018.

He followed with several successful studio albums:

Ugly Is Beautiful (2020)

His debut studio album reached No. 14 on the Billboard 200 and featured the hit single "Life Goes On," which became a viral TikTok sensation and earned multi-platinum success.

Cowboy Tears (2022)

The album showcased country influences and included a period of major international touring.

Alone in a Crowd (2023)

A concept-driven project that expanded Tree's visual storytelling and stage production.

Love You Madly, Hate You Badly (2026)

Released earlier this year, the album was being promoted through a global tour spanning Europe, North America, Australia, China, and South America.

Personal Life

Tree grew up in an unconventional environment, spending part of his childhood traveling with his family before settling in Santa Cruz.

He was also known for his relationship with singer Melanie Martinez, which lasted from 2019 to 2021. Following their separation, Tree spoke publicly about the challenges of balancing relationships with an intensive touring lifestyle.

Investigation Continues

Brazilian authorities continue to investigate the helicopter collision. Additional details regarding the crash, including its cause and any official aviation findings, have not yet been released.

If confirmed, Oliver Tree's death marks the loss of one of the most distinctive and unconventional artists of his generation, whose music, humor, and larger-than-life persona helped build a dedicated global fanbase.