What's happened
Celeste Rivas Hernandez's remains were found in a Tesla impounded in Los Angeles on September 8, just after her 15th birthday. Police consider singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, a suspect, but the cause of death remains undetermined. The investigation is ongoing, with court orders blocking release of details.
What's behind the headline?
The case highlights the complexities of celebrity-involved investigations, especially when minors are involved. The police's decision to impose a court-ordered security hold on case details indicates a sensitive and ongoing investigation. The denial of reports that her body was frozen or decapitated suggests initial speculation may have been exaggerated. The link between D4vd and the victim, based on social media and phone data, points to a possible involvement, but no charges have been filed. The case underscores the challenges of investigating dismembered remains and the importance of forensic evidence in establishing cause of death. The ongoing investigation will likely focus on establishing whether this was a homicide and the singer's potential role, with legal proceedings possibly emerging in the coming months.
What the papers say
The New York Post reports that police are tightening the investigation around D4vd, with evidence presented to a grand jury, though no charges have been filed. TMZ and other outlets have detailed the discovery of the body and the police's efforts to block release of case details, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the probe. The Los Angeles Times notes that the grand jury cannot indict but can subpoena witnesses, indicating a serious step forward. The LAPD has publicly denied earlier reports that her body was frozen or decapitated, clarifying the state of her remains. The investigation remains sensitive, with court orders preventing disclosure of cause of death, and D4vd's lawyer declining to comment, reflecting the case's legal complexity.
How we got here
Celeste Rivas Hernandez was reported missing in April 2024 from Lake Elsinore, California. Her body was discovered in September in a Tesla linked to singer D4vd, who was on tour at the time. Authorities have not confirmed her cause of death but are investigating her death as a potential homicide, with evidence linking D4vd to the scene.
Go deeper
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David Anthony Burke, known professionally as d4vd, is an American singer and songwriter. Burke began making music at his mother's recommendation to avoid receiving copyright strikes on his YouTube videos.
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The Los Angeles Police Department, officially the City of Los Angeles Police Department, is the police department of Los Angeles, California.