A shocking development has rocked the music world and the Los Angeles community. The body of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez was discovered in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to singer d4vd (real name David Anthony Burke) earlier this month, according to Los Angeles Police Department officials.
The teen, who had been reported missing multiple times in 2024, was found in the impounded vehicle on September 8, 2025, just one day after her 15th birthday. Authorities believe her body had been in the car for several weeks before discovery.
LAPD Confirms Timeline
Speaking with People, LAPD Captain and Commanding Officer Scot M. Williams detailed the grim circumstances:
“We know for sure that Celeste Rivas Hernandez died and someone placed her body in the front trunk area of David Burke’s [d4vd’s] Tesla. The Tesla had been parked at the location from which it was towed for several weeks, so it is very likely she had been dead for several weeks prior to her body being discovered.”
Despite the discovery, d4vd has not been named a suspect or charged, and his representatives state that he is fully cooperating with authorities.
Williams confirmed that the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has not yet determined a cause or manner of death, meaning investigators cannot currently ascertain whether anyone bears criminal responsibility beyond the concealment of the body.
Investigation and Search Warrant
The LAPD’s robbery-homicide division is actively investigating the case. A search warrant was executed at a nearby residence, though officials have not disclosed the items seized. Reports indicate that d4vd and his manager had recently vacated the property days after electronics and other items were confiscated.
Neighbors first noticed the Tesla in the Hollywood Hills weeks before the discovery, with parking enforcement flagging the vehicle on August 27, 2025, for remaining beyond the 72-hour limit. The car was subsequently towed on September 5.
Unverified Speculation on Relationship
Online discussions have fueled speculation about a potential connection between Hernandez and d4vd. Some note that the teen had a “Shhh” tattoo matching one the singer reportedly has. However, Captain Williams stressed:
“As far as their relationship, it would be premature for me to say anything. We are looking into everything.”
Legal experts caution against jumping to conclusions before the autopsy is complete. ABC News contributor Brian Buckmire explained:
“First, they need to figure out if it’s a homicide or not, and the autopsy report will help give them that. Then they have to figure out the who and the how in order to bring charges.”
d4vd’s Career Impact
The singer, 20, has earned acclaim for tracks like “Here With Me” and “One More Dance”, and released his debut album Withered in April 2025. Following the tragic discovery, d4vd canceled his remaining U.S. tour dates, according to NBC News.
Family and Memorial
Rivas Hernandez, from Lake Elsinore, California, was reported missing at least three times in 2024. Her family received her remains last week and plans to hold a memorial service this Saturday.
The heartbreaking case has left fans and the community in shock, raising questions that only the ongoing investigation and autopsy can answer.
Stay tuned to The Pop Radar for live updates on the investigation and any official statements from the LAPD or d4vd’s representatives.
