The music world is in shock following the sudden and devastating death of Oliver Tree, the eccentric indie-pop artist known for his bowl cut, scooter antics, and viral hits like “Alien Boy” and “Life Goes On.” Tree, 32, died Sunday morning, June 14, when two helicopters collided mid-air over the Recreio dos Bandeirantes neighborhood in southwest Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. All six people aboard the two aircraft were killed.
Tree had been in Rio as part of his ongoing “The World’s First World Tour,” which kicked off May 30 in Mexico City. He had performed in São Paulo on June 6 and in Buenos Aires on June 4. In the days leading up to the crash, Tree and his friends were documenting the trip on social media — playing street soccer, eating local food, and soaking in Brazil ahead of what should have been another sold-out show.
According to reports citing Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro, Tree was travelling with passengers Lucas Vignale, Gaspar Prim, Lucas Brito Chaves, and pilot Alexandre Souza. The other helicopter was piloted by Charles Marsillac, who was flying alone. An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
Tributes poured in immediately. Comedian Whitney Cummings wrote that Tree was “pure love and the best version of what an artist and person can and should be.” British influencer and musician KSI posted on X, “You’re 32, man. You should still be here.” Brazilian influencer Iae Break, who had posted videos of Tree’s trip in the days before his death, shared a heartbroken tribute.
Tree first broke through with Whethan’s viral track “When I’m Down” before building a devoted fanbase through his wild, self-aware persona and emotionally raw music. He had recently performed at Coachella 2026 and was in the middle of his biggest tour yet. There is no other word for it — this one hurts.
