Musician Oliver Tree killed in mid-air helicopter crash, all six onboard confirmed dead

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL: On June 14, what began as an ordinary Sunday morning above Rio de Janeiro turned into a scene of devastation when two helicopters collided midair and plunged into the city's western outskirts, killing everyone on board.

Among the victims was musician and internet personality Oliver Tree, whose unconventional style, viral success and global fanbase helped make him one of the most recognizable alternative artists of the streaming era.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the deadly collision.

Mid-air collision ends in catastrophe

According to local authorities, the two helicopters crashed after colliding above the Recreio dos Bandeirantes district in Rio's western zone.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft lose control moments after impact, then fall toward the ground.

One of the helicopters crashed into the grounds of a vehicle dealership, triggering a massive fire that spread through a parking area filled with electric vehicles.

Firefighters rushed to the scene and battled flames that engulfed multiple cars. Despite emergency crews arriving quickly, officials said there were no survivors.

Police sources cited by local media said Oliver Tree was aboard one of the helicopters involved in the crash.

The 32-year-old performer was reportedly in Brazil as part of an international tour and had upcoming appearances scheduled in Europe later this year.

Authorities have not yet completed formal identification of the victims because of the severe burn damage caused by the post-crash fire.

The crash also reportedly claimed the lives of a Brazilian music producer, an Argentine video director and Argentine content creator Gaspar Prim.

Fireball erupts at dealership

The collision triggered destruction far beyond the aircraft themselves.

After one helicopter slammed into the dealership property, approximately 20 vehicles caught fire, creating towering smoke visible across parts of the neighborhood.

Images circulating online showed charred wreckage scattered across the site as firefighters worked to contain the blaze and secure the area.

Officials said one helicopter was carrying five occupants while the second aircraft was being flown solely by its pilot.

Oliver Tree leaves a lasting legacy

Tree carved out a unique place in modern pop culture by blending music, comedy and internet satire into a single larger-than-life persona.

Known for his trademark bowl haircut, oversized outfits and offbeat humor, he developed a devoted following that extended far beyond traditional music audiences.

His biggest songs, including 'Life Goes On', 'Miss You' and 'Alien Boy' generated hundreds of millions of streams worldwide.

At the time of his reported death, he attracted more than 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify and remained one of the platform's most recognizable alternative artists.