Coroner Details Horrific Injuries Celeste Rivas Hernandez Sustained During D4vd’s Murder Hearing

**Teenage Runaway’s Murder: D4vd Faces Multiple Charges in Gruesome Case**

Los Angeles County is reeling from the shocking details surrounding the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in the trunk of a Tesla owned by David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd. Burke, now 21, is charged with multiple offences, including murder and the unlawful mutilation of human remains, related to the tragic case.

Rivas, who had been reported missing, was found on 8 September 2025, following the impounding of Burke’s vehicle. During a preliminary hearing, details regarding the circumstances of her death were revealed, painting a harrowing picture of violence and betrayal. Prosecutors allege that Burke killed Rivas on 23 April 2025, after she threatened to reveal their sexual relationship, which allegedly began when she was just 13 years old.

Dr. Grant Ho, a deputy medical examiner, testified about the catastrophic injuries sustained by Rivas. An autopsy indicated that she experienced two penetrating wounds — one to her abdomen that fatally damaged her liver and another to her lower chest which injured her ribs. Due to significant decomposition, it remained unclear what weapon was used, but Dr. Ho classified her death as a homicide. He indicated that Rivas would have only survived minutes to an hour after receiving her injuries, which underscores the brutality of the attack.

The medical examiner noted the gruesome state of Rivas’s remains. Her left eye was absent, and parts of her skull had decomposed. Although the exact date of her death could not be established, it was clear she had been dead for several weeks prior to the discovery of her remains. This timeline adds a chilling aspect to the case, as loved ones had been searching for the young girl during that period.

According to evidence presented in court, Burke allegedly feared exposure of their illicit relationship. Prosecutors detailed explicit text messages exchanged between Burke and Rivas and suggested he dismembered her body using tools purchased online. Items allegedly acquired by Burke included a shovel, three chainsaws, cadaver bags, and heavy-duty laundry bags, highlighting the premeditated nature of his actions following her death.

In his testimony, Dr. Ho also revealed that Rivas’s right index finger — adorned with a tattoo that read “Shhhh” — had been amputated. Notably, Burke has a matching tattoo, which prosecutors indicated could suggest a sinister connection between the two. During proceedings, Burke displayed little emotion when confronted with evidence of the crime, further adding to the unsettling atmosphere in the courtroom.

Investigators also presented DNA evidence linking Burke to the crime scene, including blood found on various items in his garage, which was confirmed to belong to Rivas. Among the evidence was a double-bagged trash bag containing anatomical remains, suggesting attempts to conceal the brutal act. Additionally, clothing worn by Rivas was recovered, described by forensic experts as heavily soiled and in poor condition, indicating neglect and a possible struggle prior to her death.

The circumstances surrounding Rivas’s relationships, including the allegation that Burke met her when she was just 11 years old, only add to the disturbing nature of this case. The prosecution emphasised the power dynamics and predatory behaviour allegedly displayed by Burke, framing the relationship as one of ongoing abuse.

As the preliminary hearing continues, the court is expected to examine further evidence and testimony surrounding the tragic demise of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges and remains in custody without the possibility of bail. This case has struck a chord across the nation, raising significant concerns regarding the safety and protection of vulnerable youths.

Public sentiment has echoed calls for justice, with many advocating for a thorough investigation into the events leading up to Rivas’s death and the legal system’s ability to protect minors from similar abuses in the future. The community awaits further developments as new information emerges, hoping for accountability in the face of such unfathomable loss.