Cause of Death Deferred, Body of Celeste Rivas Released to Family

Cause of Death Deferred, Body of Celeste Rivas Released to Family 💔 

LOS ANGELES — The remains of almost-15-year old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, discovered earlier this month inside a bag in the trunk of a Tesla registered to rising R&B artist d4vd, have been released to her family in Lake Elsinore for memorial services.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed that the autopsy and laboratory testing have been completed. However, the official cause of death has been deferred, pending further review.

Former senior deputy district attorney Matt Murphy told Banfield that prosecutors do not need a confirmed cause of death to pursue charges in the case. “You can still prosecute, you can certainly prosecute,” Murphy said.

He also noted that detectives have conducted a full forensic sweep of d4vd’s residence, searching for DNA evidence or potential instruments connected to the dismemberment of Rivas.

BACKSTORY:

Los Angeles, CA — Officials have confirmed that the remains discovered in the trunk of a Tesla sedan tied to singer d4vd belong to 15-year-old Celeste Rivas, who vanished from Lake Elsinore in April 2024.

The vehicle, registered to 20-year-old artist David Anthony Burke (known professionally as d4vd), was impounded in the Hollywood Hills after a foul odor was reported. Inside, investigators found Rivas’s body wrapped in plastic and in an advanced state of decomposition.

Her mother identified her through details including a tattoo on her finger, clothing, and jewelry. Rivas was just 13 when she disappeared, and her family had long feared the worst.

Authorities say Burke has been cooperating with the investigation, but the discovery has cast a shadow over his rising career. The singer reportedly canceled a Seattle performance, and brands like Crocs and Hollister, which had recently featured him in campaigns, have cut ties.

The investigation remains ongoing as the community mourns the loss of Celeste Rivas.