British YouTuber and rapper KSI has expressed profound grief following the death of American singer-songwriter Oliver Tree, who was killed in a mid-air helicopter collision in Brazil. The incident, which occurred on Sunday morning over Rio de Janeiro, claimed the lives of all six individuals aboard the two aircraft involved.
Local reports indicate that Tree, aged 32, was listed on the passenger manifest of one of the helicopters. The collision resulted in one of the aircraft crashing into a car dealership in the city's western zone, sparking a fire that was later brought under control. Authorities have yet to formally identify the victims' bodies.
KSI, whose real name is Olajide Olatunji, took to X to share his sorrow, writing: "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. So much content to make. You’re a legend and will always be a legend. Still doesn’t feel real. Genuinely feel sick. I love you bro." The pair had previously collaborated on the track "Voices."
Oliver Tree was a distinctive artist known for his hit song "Miss You," which achieved significant success, peaking at number three on the UK singles chart and earning him a Brit Award nomination for International Song in 2024. Beyond his musical career, Tree was also recognised for his eccentric stunts, including holding a Guinness World Record for the largest kick scooter, a feat he accomplished in 2020.
At the time of his death, Tree was only weeks into his ambitious 'World’s First World Tour', which aimed to see him perform on all seven continents. He had recently played in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and had shared a video of himself playing football in a Brazilian neighbourhood just the day before the tragic accident. His extensive tour schedule included more than 70 shows across 30 countries, with highly anticipated UK dates in Glasgow, Manchester, and London slated for September.
Brazilian officials have initiated a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the precise cause of the mid-air collision, as the music world and his fans mourn the sudden loss of a unique talent.