Oliver Tree's Mom Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Son

Oliver Tree’s mother is speaking out about her son’s tragic death. 

Days after news broke that the musician had died in a helicopter crash in Brazil, Christine Begin Nickell shared an emotional message on Facebook, remembering the son she said made the world a better place.

“Our dear son Oliver, you made this world a better place. We are so proud of you. RIP ❤️❤️❤️,” she shared on Thursday, June 18, alongside a childhood photo of the singer.  

Since his death, friends, family, and fans online continue to remember the singer following his tragic death.

Among them was Melanie Martinez, who dated Tree after years of friendship. Shortly after the news broke, the singer shared a message on her Instagram Story reflecting on their time together. “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,” she wrote.

Martinez went on to praise Tree’s dedication to his craft, adding, “He was so dedicated to his art which I admired and respected so deeply.” The singer also reflected on the joy he brought to those around him, describing him as someone who balanced creativity with “a sense of childlike wonder and awe.”

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The pair first became friends before confirming their romantic relationship in 2019. Although they later split, Martinez publicly confirmed they remained on good terms.

How did Oliver Tree die?

Tree, whose full name was Oliver Tree Nickell, died on Sunday, June 14 after two helicopters collided mid-air over Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He was 32 years old.

According to reports, six people were killed in the crash. Authorities said one of the helicopters came down in the city’s western zone, where the impact sparked a fire that spread to multiple vehicles below. Brazilian aviation officials have since launched an investigation into what caused the collision.

Tree had been in Brazil after performing in São Paulo as part of his ongoing world tour.

Related: Why Oliver Tree’s New Album Was Almost Scrapped 2 Months Before His Death