Oliver Tree Killed in Rio Helicopter Crash; Ex-Partner Melanie Martinez Pays Tribute

A mid‑air collision over Rio de Janeiro’s south‑western suburb of Recreio dos Bandeirantes on June 14, 2026, ended the life of American singer‑songwriter Oliver Tree. Two helicopters, one carrying Tree and five other passengers, collided in the sky, sparking a fireball that threw debris across a nearby car‑dealership parking lot. The Brazilian military fire department confirmed that all six people aboard the aircraft died.

The incident, first reported by CNN Brazil, unfolded as a mid‑air collision rather than a ground‑based crash. The fiery impact left a trail of wreckage that was quickly extinguished by emergency crews. A preliminary inquiry by the Brazilian authorities points to a possible mechanical failure, but investigators have not yet announced a definitive cause. The investigation remains active, and no further details have been released.

Tree, 32, had been touring internationally at the time of the accident. He had performed in São Paulo on June 6 and was slated to play in Lisbon, Portugal, on July 13. In a final Instagram video posted on June 14, titled "Gringo’s 24 hours in Brazil," Tree filmed himself in Spanish as he played soccer, got a haircut, and cooked meat, offering a glimpse of his life on the road.

Melanie Martinez, who dated Tree from 2019 to 2020, shared a tribute on Instagram Stories the Sunday after the crash. She wrote, "Been an absolute wreck today. It’s really hard to understand how someone who you once shared such a specific and formative time of your life with can all of a sudden be gone," and added, "He was so dedicated to his art, which I admired and respected so deeply. I think everyone who knew him will look back at those moments of laughter and joy he so easily sparked." Martinez also highlighted Tree’s "contagious and warm" laugh and his creative outlook.

Other musicians and entertainers expressed their shock publicly. Bebe Rexha, who collaborated with Tree on the track "Dirty Blonde," posted on X: "I’m in shock. I was in the middle of my CD signing in NYC when I found the news of Oliver Tree. I can’t believe it. We recorded a record together to be on dirty blonde. He was so smart. Passionate. Talented. Kind. I’m so sad. May he rest in peace." Whitney Cummings, comedian and actress, added on social media, "Oliver is one of the most talented people on earth and usually that comes with an ego and all kinds of dickhead nonsense, but Oliver is pure love and the best version of what an artist can and should be. There’s no silver lining. We lost a giant."

Tree’s career began with the viral single "When I’m Down" in 2017, after which he signed with Atlantic Records. He released four studio albums: "Ugly Is Beautiful" (2020), "Cowboy Tears" (2022), "Alone in a Crowd" (2023), and "Love You Madly Hate You Badly" (April 2026). His music blended rap, pop, and experimental production, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

Atlantic Records issued a brief statement confirming Tree’s death and expressing condolences to his family and collaborators. The label noted that Tree’s work continues to influence emerging artists.

The Brazilian authorities have opened an investigation into the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest a mechanical failure, but no definitive cause has been announced. The incident has prompted discussions within the aviation and entertainment communities about safety protocols for touring artists.

As of now, the investigation remains active, and no further details have been released. The music community continues to mourn Tree’s loss, and tributes from peers and fans underscore the impact of his artistry.