Tragic Mid-Air Collision Claims Six Lives in Rio de Janeiro
A devastating mid-air collision involving two helicopters has resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including American internet personality Oliver Tree, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The catastrophic event occurred on Sunday morning, sending one of the aircraft spiraling uncontrollably to the ground.
The impact occurred in the parking lot of an electric car dealership, triggering a significant fire that consumed at least 20 vehicles. Initial reports emergency services indicate that the incident was a result of a mid-air collision. Firefighters confirmed six fatalities, all of whom were crew members aboard the involved aircraft.
Devastating Aftermath Captured on Surveillance Footage
Newly released surveillance footage offers a harrowing glimpse of the moments leading up to the crash, showing one of the helicopters spinning violently as it plummeted towards the earth. Dramatic images and videos from the scene depict the wreckage of the mangled helicopters scattered across smashed cars and burnt-out vehicles within the dealership’s parking lot.
Among the deceased were identified as:
- Oliver Tree, an American singer and internet personality.
- Gaspar Prim, also known as Argentinian YouTuber Gaspi, aged 23.
- Lucas Vignale.
- Lucas Brito Chaves.
- Alexandre Souza, pilot.
- Charles Marsillac, pilot.
Prominent Content Creator Among Victims
Gaspi was a highly popular content creator in Argentina, boasting nearly three million subscribers on YouTube and tens of millions of video views. His presence in the incident highlights the diverse individuals affected by this tragedy.
Unfolding of the Disaster Remains Under Investigation
Lieutenant Colonel Fabio Contreiras of the Fire Services stated that the exact sequence of events leading to the accident is still unclear. “Parts of the aircraft are scattered hundreds of meters away, so the information we have is still very preliminary. We really need to get the recordings and videos to understand exactly what happened,” Contreiras explained.
Rescue workers discovered one helicopter engulfed in flames amidst the electric cars, with five occupants inside. A second helicopter, located approximately 330 feet away, carried only its pilot, who also perished.
Witness Accounts Describe Terrifying Scene
The accident occurred in the Recreio dos Bandeirantes suburb. One witness described seeing a helicopter in flames following the collision and reported witnessing a passenger jump from the other aircraft before both impacted the ground. “It was terrifying, absolutely horrifying,” recounted tyre worker Fernandes de Freitas.
Images shared by local media showed thick plumes of black smoke rising from the car dealership, with multiple vehicles ablaze. Officials noted that the location of the crash in a parking area likely prevented a higher casualty count. “Given the surrounding residences, the accident could have been far more tragic,” Contreiras commented.
Oliver Tree’s Career and Recent Activities
Oliver Tree, a native of Santa Cruz, California, was renowned for his viral songs, distinctive fashion, and hairstyles. At the time of his death, he was on a world tour promoting his latest studio album. The tour, which began in Mexico City on May 30, was scheduled to include stops across Asia, Oceania, and Africa.
In the days leading up to the incident, Tree had shared videos of his travels in Brazil, documenting his experiences with captions like ‘American for the 1st time in Brazil.’ He had also posted footage of himself playing football amidst the country’s World Cup fervor.
Tree gained significant traction after his song “When I’m Down” went viral, leading to his signing with Atlantic Records in 2017. He released his debut album, “Ugly is Beautiful,” in July 2020, followed by three more studio albums. His most recent release, “Love You Madly Hate You Badly,” came out on April 24, 2026, and was entirely self-produced.
His music videos have amassed over a billion views on YouTube, with popular tracks like “Life Goes On” and “Miss You” garnering hundreds of millions of views individually. These songs also found widespread use on platforms like TikTok, making Tree’s music recognizable to a vast audience.
Tributes Pour In for the Deceased
Brazilian content creator Iae Break, who recently collaborated with Tree, expressed his disbelief on social media, writing, “I can’t believe you guys are gone.”
Oliver Tree’s ex-girlfriend, singer Melanie Martinez, shared her grief on Instagram, stating, “It’s really hard to understand how someone who you once shared such a specific and formative time of your life can all of a sudden be gone. He was so dedicated to his art which I admired and respected deeply.” She added, “I know you’re making the angels giggle. I’ll be here wondering what stunt and creative project you’re scheming up in heaven.”
Musician KSI took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his shock: “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.” He concluded, “You’re a legend and will always be a legend. Still doesn’t feel real. Genuinely feel sick. I love you bro.”
Rapper Lil Yachty also posted a tribute on Instagram, sharing a picture with Tree and writing, “Man, rest in peace friend.” Singer Bebe Rexha shared her shock on X, stating, “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.”
