The body of musician Oliver Tree has been repatriated to the United States following a helicopter crash in southern France that claimed his life at the age of 30. The accident occurred on Tuesday afternoon near the commune of Saint-Tropez, where the California-born artist had been staying. Tree, whose real name was Oliver Tree Nickell, was the sole occupant of the aircraft, which went down under circumstances that remain under investigation by French aviation authorities.
A spokesperson for the Tree family confirmed the return of his remains late Thursday evening, describing the process as “swift but agonising.” In a brief statement issued through their legal representatives, the family requested privacy as they prepare for a private funeral service in Santa Cruz, California, where Tree grew up. “We are heartbroken by the loss of Oliver, a beloved son, brother, and friend. His music and spirit touched millions, and we ask for space to grieve during this unimaginable time,” the statement read.
Tree rose to prominence in the late 2010s with his eclectic blend of alternative pop, rock, and electronic music, marked by his distinctive bowl-cut hairstyle and oversized glasses. Known for albums such as “Ugly is Beautiful” and “Cowboy Tears,” he cultivated a loyal fanbase through his irreverent humour and genre-defying sound. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans across social media, with many remembering his unorthodox stage presence and candid lyrics.
The crash has raised questions about the safety of private helicopter travel in the region, which is known for its variable weather conditions. French investigators have recovered the flight data recorder and are examining maintenance records for the single-engine Robinson R44 helicopter. Preliminary reports suggest no distress signal was issued before the crash, though authorities have not ruled out mechanical failure or pilot error.
Tree’s management has confirmed that posthumous releases are not currently planned, but they are working with his estate to preserve his musical legacy. Meanwhile, the family has declined to comment on the cause of the crash, citing the ongoing investigation. The music industry, still reeling from the loss, now turns its attention to the final arrangements for an artist who, as one colleague put it, “never played by the rules but always played from the heart.”
