Oliver Tree's Body Returned to California After Brazil Crash

The body of musician Oliver Tree has been recovered following his death in a helicopter crash in Brazil and has been returned to the United States, his family announced Sunday.

"Oliver is now back in California where he can finally rest," stated a Sunday, June 21, Instagram post shared via the late musician and artist's account, according to Us Weekly. The announcement marked the first social media communication from Tree's account since the fatal collision that occurred southwest of Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, June 14.

Tree, whose full name was Oliver Tree Nickell, was 32 years old at the time of his death. He was traveling in one of two helicopters that collided during what authorities confirmed was a catastrophic accident that killed all five passengers and the pilot aboard one of the aircraft.

The Instagram tribute included a carousel of photographs and a heartfelt message honoring the artist's memory. "Rest in peace Oliver Tree Nickell June 29th, 1993 – June 14th, 2026. Your legacy will live on forever," the post began, according to Us Weekly. "Thank you to everyone who has reached out, shown love, support and has done incredible tributes for Oliver. The constant love, support and positivity is helping the family, friends and collaborators make it through these extremely difficult times."

The announcement revealed plans to establish a foundation in Tree's honor, fulfilling wishes the musician had outlined before his death. The foundation will be named "Dr. Oliver Tree's Extremely Epic Grant For Baby Geniuses" and was described as something Tree had arranged in his will.

"This is something that Oliver had put together before his passing, written in his will," the Instagram post stated, per Us Weekly. "We will make sure his wish comes to fruition so that more joy, love and art can be spread into the world, that was his final wish."

The message concluded with gratitude for the outpouring of support: "Love you all so much, Oliver would be so proud of every one of his supporters, friends and family. Peace be with Oliver … ❤️."

News of the crash first emerged on June 14 when CNN Brazil reported six fatalities, with Tree's name appearing on the passenger list provided to aviation authorities. The Government of the State of Rio de Janeiro issued a statement expressing condolences following the tragedy.

"We express our deep sorrow for the six victims resulting from the accident involving two aircraft in the Southwest Zone of Rio de Janeiro," the government stated in a post on X. "In this moment of pain, I express my solidarity to the family members and friends of the victims of the tragedy."

Tree's mother, Christine Begin Nickell, addressed her son's death via Facebook on Thursday, June 18. "Our dear son Oliver, you made this world a better place," Nickell wrote, according to Us Weekly. "We are so proud of you. RIP ❤️💔❤️." Her words accompanied a photograph of her son holding a dog.

At the time of his death, Tree had been touring Brazil as part of an extensive world tour. His schedule indicated he was next expected to perform on July 1 in Lisbon, with tour dates planned through October 25, when he was scheduled to appear in Beijing.

The singer-songwriter gained recognition for his distinctive musical style and visual aesthetic. His death has prompted tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and collaborators across the entertainment industry, underscoring the impact of his artistic contributions during his career.