Autopsy Confirms Teen Found in D4vd's Tesla Died from Multiple Stab Wounds

Los Angeles County medical examiners have determined that 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose body was discovered in a Tesla belonging to TikTok sensation D4vd, died from multiple penetrating injuries inflicted by an undisclosed object or objects. The ruling, announced Wednesday, officially classified her death as a homicide following months of investigation and public speculation.

Rivas Hernandez was found deceased in the front trunk of the vehicle registered to the 21-year-old singer, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, in September. Burke, known for hits including "Romantic Homicide" and "Here With Me," currently faces multiple charges including murder and has entered a not guilty plea. His legal team, comprising attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter, has declared they will "vigorously defend his innocence" and assert that evidence will prove Burke was not responsible for the teen's death.

Delayed Medical Findings Released

The medical examiner's office had completed their initial examination and determined the cause and manner of death on 9 December, but officials prevented public disclosure while police conducted their investigation. Chief Medical Examiner Dr Odey Ukpo commented on the lengthy delay, stating: "After several months, I am grateful this information can now be released, not only to the public, but also to the grieving family enduring loss. It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter."

Autopsy Reveals Stab Wounds

According to the medical examiner's report reviewed by the BBC, the autopsy identified stab wounds on the victim's abdomen and chest. Additional findings indicated that forensic teams discovered shredded blue plastic embedded within some of her wounds. Her remains were found enclosed in a black zippered bag placed in the vehicle's front trunk.

A toxicology examination detected methamphetamine or MDMA and low levels of alcohol in her system, though investigators determined neither substance contributed to her death.

Timeline of Events

Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed at a news conference that Rivas Hernandez visited Burke's residence in the Hollywood Hills on 23 April 2025 and "she was never heard from again." Prosecutors allege the teen was killed and her body dismembered on or around 5 May 2025—approximately four months before the discovery of her remains.

Her parents reported her missing in April, but it remained until September when her body was located. Police did not arrest Burke until more than seven months later, with his arrest occurring in Los Angeles last week. Burke made his first court appearance on 20 April 2026, where he pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. He remains detained without bail and is scheduled to return to Los Angeles court on Thursday at 0830 local time (1630 BST).

Family's Statement

Rivas Hernandez's parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, released their first public statement this week following Burke's court arraignment. They expressed gratitude to law enforcement, prosecutors, and their Lake Elsinore community for their support.

"Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. Every Friday night was movie night and we spent wonderful times together. We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is Justice for Celeste."

Family attorney Patrick Steinfeld told the BBC that the family was "devastated after hearing the gruesome details that came out in David Burke's arraignment."

Investigation Delays Defended

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell defended his agency's investigative approach on Monday, emphasizing that their priority was securing justice rather than satisfying public curiosity. "I want to be clear about something. My duty is not to fuel speculation. It's to deliver justice, and that requires patience and discipline on everybody's part," he stated.

McDonnell explained that the decomposed condition of the remains, resulting from the substantial time elapsed between the alleged killing and discovery, complicated the determination of cause of death as evidence degraded.

District Attorney Hochman acknowledged additional complications in the investigation, including challenges with witness interviews—some individuals cooperated while others did not—and the necessity to thoroughly examine all available evidence. "It's the type of case that you want to get maximum information," Hochman said, urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

Professional Consequences

Following the discovery of Rivas Hernandez's body in his vehicle, Burke largely withdrew from public life. His world tour was cancelled, and multiple brand partnerships were reportedly terminated.