Oliver Tree’s Final Wish Revealed After Singer Dies in Fatal Brazil Helicopter Crash

Musician Oliver Tree reportedly died in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Sunday at the age of 32. The singer, known for hits including “Miss You,” had recently discussed an unusual provision in his will during an appearance on The Zach Sang Show.

According to reports, Tree was among six people killed when two helicopters collided mid-air over Recreio dos Bandeirantes, a coastal neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro’s southwest zone. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision.

The crash reportedly resulted in additional destruction when the helicopters fell into an electric vehicle storage yard, sparking fires that damaged at least 20 vehicles, according to CNN Brazil. Officials said there were no survivors.

Oliver Tree’s Will: No Family Inheritance

Just weeks before the reported accident, Tree spoke candidly about his plans for his estate during an April episode of The Zach Sang Show.

“I don't believe that any of the wealth or the things that get made from it is mine,” Tree said. He explained that his will was structured so that his family would not inherit his fortune.

“If I have a wife or kids or anything, [they're] not getting a penny,” he said, adding that any future children would be supported through college but would not receive a large inheritance.

Instead, Tree said his wealth would be directed toward supporting artists through a charitable foundation.

Foundation Created to Support Future Artists

Tree revealed that he had established a foundation called Dr. Oliver Tree’s Art Grants for Baby Geniuses. The organization was designed to receive income generated by his music catalog after his death.

“When I die, my art will continue to have residuals,” Tree said, explaining that a committee would oversee the distribution of funds to artists selected each year.

According to Tree, the goal of the foundation was to help finance creative projects and provide opportunities for emerging artists rather than pass wealth directly to family members.

Who Else Was Reportedly Killed in the Crash?

Reports identified the other victims as Lucas Vignale, Gaspar Prim—better known as Argentine YouTuber Gaspi—Lucas Brito Chaves, and pilots Alexandre Souza and Charles Marsillac.

Authorities in Brazil continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.

Oliver Tree’s Family and Background

Born Oliver Tree Nickell, the musician was known for his eccentric public persona, distinctive fashion style, and genre-blending music.

His father, Jesse Louis Nickell III, and mother, Christine Marie Begin, both worked with a circus organization connected to the Pickle Family Circus. Tree often described a unique childhood spent traveling with his family before they eventually settled in Santa Cruz, California.

He credited his parents’ unconventional lifestyle and love of music for influencing his artistic career. Tree also had an older brother, Caleb, and frequently spoke about the profound impact of losing a cousin during his youth, an experience that shaped many of the themes explored in his work.

Legacy

Throughout his career, Oliver Tree built a reputation for combining music, comedy, visual art, and performance into a distinctive creative brand. His recently disclosed plans for directing his estate toward supporting artists reflected his belief that creative success should help future generations of creators.

As investigations into the Brazil helicopter crash continue, fans around the world are remembering the musician’s unconventional career, artistic vision, and commitment to supporting emerging talent.