Oliver Tree Killed in Helicopter Collision Over Rio de Janeiro

A sudden tragedy over Rio de Janeiro’s skies claimed the life of American singer‑songwriter Oliver Tree on June 14, 2026. Two helicopters collided mid‑air, sending one aircraft into the parking lot of an electric‑vehicle dealership and setting several cars ablaze. Firefighters on the scene extinguished the blaze before it could spread.

The incident was first reported by the Military Firefighters Corps of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Investigators are now examining what caused the mid‑air collision. Police confirmed that Tree was listed as a passenger on one of the helicopters, but the bodies of the victims have not yet been identified. The Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro have not released further statements.

Tree was in the midst of a world tour for his fourth studio album, Love You Madly, Hate You Badly, which hit streaming platforms in April 2026. He had performed in Buenos Aires on June 4 and shared a video of himself playing soccer in a Brazilian neighbourhood on Instagram the day before the crash.

The singer’s career began with the 2013 EP Demons. After signing with Atlantic Records in 2017, he released Ugly Is Beautiful (2020), Cowboy Tears (2022), Alone in a Crowd (2023), and the current album. In 2020 he also set a Guinness World Record for the largest kick scooter.

Following the news, several public figures posted tributes on social media. Comedian Whitney Cummings noted Tree’s talent and expressed sorrow. Former partner Melanie Martinez shared a message of loss on Instagram Stories. Influencers KSI, Bebe Rexha, Steve‑O, T‑Pain, and rapper bbno$ each posted short statements of condolence on X or Instagram.

The accident is the latest in a series of aviation incidents in Brazil. According to reports, five of the six fatalities were aboard one helicopter, while the pilot of the second aircraft survived. The incident has prompted a review of helicopter operations in the region.

At present, no additional information about the investigation’s progress or the identities of the victims has been released. The music community and fans worldwide have expressed their grief through social‑media tributes, underscoring Tree’s influence as a performer and creator.

The incident remains under investigation, and further updates are expected as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision.