This video provides an update on the investigation into the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decomposed and reportedly mutilated remains were discovered in the trunk of a Tesla registered to 20-year-old viral music artist D4vd (real name David Anthony Burke).

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Key Investigation Details

 

The case, being handled by the LAPD’s Robbery Homicide Division, has provided few official answers:

Discovery and Remains: Celeste’s body was found on September 8th inside a plastic bag in the trunk of a Tesla at a Los Angeles tow yard. The car had been abandoned for about five days in the Hollywood Hills near D4vd’s rental home before being impounded.
Deferred Cause of Death: The LA County Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the cause and manner of death as deferred, indicating that additional testing and/or studies are required before a determination can be made. This process could take months.
No Arrests: There have been no arrests or official identification of a suspect or person of interest. D4vd has not been listed as a suspect, and reports indicate he has been cooperative with authorities.

 

Connection to D4vd and Subsequent Actions

Body found inside impounded Tesla that's registered to singer D4vd - ABC7  Los Angeles

While D4vd has not been implicated in the death, his connection to the car and his subsequent actions have drawn intense scrutiny:

Property Search: On September 17th, police searched D4vd’s multimillion-dollar, Hollywood Hills rental home, looking for evidence including blood and digital devices to establish any link between Celeste and the property. Detectives reportedly left with a computer and several evidence bags.
Moving Out: D4vd, who was renting the property for $20,000 a month, subsequently broke his lease and moved out of the home. He also cancelled upcoming tour dates in Europe. Legal experts suggest that these actions, while significant, could be based on attorney advice to avoid media attention and entanglement with the police investigation.
Unverified Relationship: Celeste, who had been missing since 2024, reportedly ran away multiple times from her home in Lake Elsinore. Rumors, including those reported by TMZ sources, suggest that D4vd and Celeste may have had a romantic relationship, though no official confirmation has been made. Celeste, who was 14, was reportedly believed to be 19 by some in the music industry due to presenting herself maturely.

 

Next Steps for Authorities

 

Forensic Analysis: Digital forensic analysts are going through all seized electronics to establish a chain of communication, if any, between Celeste and D4vd.
Time and Cause of Death: Determining the time of death will be “tricky” due to the body’s decomposition. Prosecutors are taking their time to avoid a “rush to judgment” and ensure they have a watertight case before making any arrests.
Family Updates: Celeste’s remains have been released back to her family, indicating that the medical examiner has completed all necessary testing on the body itself.