In a devastating turn of events, Oliver Tree Nickell, the 32-year-old alt-pop musician and internet personality, perished in a helicopter collision over Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Sunday. The incident claimed the lives of six individuals, including fellow Argentine content creator Gaspar Prim Diaz, known as Gaspi.
Tree was in Brazil as part of his world tour, having recently performed in São Paulo on 6 June. He was set to continue his tour with upcoming shows scheduled in Lisbon, Glasgow, Manchester, and London. The collision occurred when one helicopter collided with another, leading to one of the aircraft crashing into a car park and igniting a fire that engulfed approximately 20 vehicles. Eyewitness footage captured the harrowing moment one helicopter plummeted from the sky, followed by plumes of thick smoke and flames rising from the wreckage.
Emergency services, including the Military Fire Department of the State of Rio de Janeiro, responded promptly, arriving at the crash site around 09:00 local time (12:00 GMT). An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision is currently underway.
Oliver Tree first gained prominence in 2016, captivating audiences with his distinctive bowl haircut and eclectic sound. His hit singles, such as "Life Goes On," "Miss You," and "Alien Boy," resonated with fans worldwide, establishing him as a unique voice in the music industry. His artistry and creativity were further highlighted when he broke the Guinness World Record in 2020 for constructing the largest kick scooter, measuring an impressive 4.16 meters tall and 3.13 meters long.
The music community has been left reeling from the news of his untimely death. KSI, the British YouTuber and musician who collaborated with Tree on the track "Voices," expressed his heartbreak in an emotional tribute on social media. "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 create," he wrote. "You're a legend and will always be a legend. Still doesn't feel real. Genuinely feel sick. I love you, bro."
Steve-O, the Jackass star, also shared his condolences, reminiscing about their friendship. "I was incredibly lucky to become friends with Oliver Tree," he said. "He would check in on me regularly and let me know he cared about how I was doing. Such a great person... I'm going to miss him."
In recognition of his talent, Tree received a nomination for a Brit Award in 2024 for his song "Miss You," in collaboration with German producer Robin Schulz. His innovative approach to music and performance left an indelible mark on the industry, and his loss is felt deeply by fans and peers alike.
As the investigation continues, the music world mourns the passing of a true innovator whose contributions will not be forgotten. Oliver Tree's legacy will undoubtedly endure through his music and the memories shared by those who knew and loved him.
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