Oliver Tree's mother, Christine Nickell, has spoken publicly for the first time since the singer's death, revealing he was "so happy and excited about life" the day before he died in a helicopter crash in Brazil on 14 June, aged 32. Six people in total were killed in the accident. Her comments came during a celebration of his life and career held in his hometown of Santa Cruz, California, over the weekend, which drew appearances from friends and collaborators including Diplo and Logan Paul.

Nickell recalled her last conversation with her son, saying he had FaceTimed her and described plans to take a helicopter ride to a mountaintop house the following day to make TikToks and music with friends. Diplo praised Tree as "the coolest person" he had ever met, while Paul delivered a comedic eulogy in keeping with the musician's style. The family has also launched an art grant in his memory, in line with plans he had reportedly set out during his lifetime, and tributes have poured in from figures including Post Malone, Kid Cudi and Melanie Martinez.