The tragic case surrounding the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has taken a significant turn following the release of her cause of death. This revelation comes just two days after singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, faced charges including murder in connection with the matter.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/D4VD-Celeste-Rivas-Hernandez-111925-tout-03-497278756e654bcd823be43b64a19ed6.jpg)
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that Rivas Hernandez died as a result of “multiple penetrating injuries caused by object(s),” and the official ruling has classified her death as a homicide. This information has been made available to the public months after her dismembered remains were discovered in the trunk of a Tesla belonging to Burke.
According to prosecutors, the horrific events began on April 23, 2025, when Burke allegedly killed Rivas. Reports indicate that he dismembered her body on May 5, 2025, and concealed her remains in his vehicle for approximately four months before they were found on September 8, 2025—just a day after Rivas would have celebrated her 15th birthday.
Details from the autopsy indicate that Rivas suffered two penetrating wounds to her torso along with bilateral dismemberment of both her upper and lower limbs. In addition, there were multiple skin defects present. There were also substances found in her system, including alcohol and a “presumptive positive” for benzodiazepines, methamphetamines, and MDMA, though further testing is required to confirm these findings.
Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo expressed relief that vital information regarding the case could finally be shared with the public, especially considering the prolonged wait endured by Rivas’ family. He emphasised the importance of transparency, not only for accountability but also in the pursuit of social justice and prevention of similar tragedies in the future.
The discovery of Rivas’ dismembered remains transpired after police responded to reports of a foul odour emanating from a Tesla at a tow yard. Authorities had received multiple reports regarding the vehicle, ultimately leading to the grim find. Rivas had previously been reported missing from Lake Elsinore, California.
Prosecutors have alleged that Burke, who is now 21 years old, had been involved in a troubling relationship with Rivas. They claim that Burke killed her to prevent her from revealing details about their illegal sexual relationship, which was reportedly under investigation at the time of her death.
Burke was arrested on April 16, 2025, and has since been charged with several serious offences, including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. Following his arraignment on April 20, where he pleaded not guilty, Burke was ordered to be held without bail. He is set to return to court soon for a preliminary hearing.
The prosecution has highlighted the nature of the murder charge, which includes allegations of lying in wait, financial motive, and obstruction of a witness to an investigation. It has also been stated that Burke allegedly used a sharp instrument to carry out the murder. If found guilty of these charges, Burke could face either the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Burke’s legal team has publicly denied the allegations, asserting he had no role in Rivas’ death, and they are committed to defending his innocence. The singer, known for his hits such as “Here with Me” and “Romantic Homicide,” had been on a North American tour when the investigation began. Following the discovery of Rivas’ remains, he made the decision to cancel the remaining dates of his tour.
As the case continues to unfold, the tragic details of Rivas’ death have left a mark on the community, raising concerns about the vulnerabilities faced by young individuals and the need for greater protection from predatory behaviour. The legal proceedings ahead will undoubtedly be closely monitored as more information is revealed.