Autopsy Report Released in Death of Teen Girl; Singer D4vd Charged with Killing
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has released the autopsy report for Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the 14-year-old girl whose remains were discovered in September 2025 inside the front trunk of a Tesla registered to singer David Burke, known professionally as D4vd. The report confirms she died from multiple penetrating injuries, and her death has been ruled a homicide.
Cause of Death Confirmed as Multiple Penetrating Injuries
According to the Medical Examiner’s report released on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Celeste Rivas Hernandez suffered multiple penetrating injuries caused by an object or objects. One stab wound was located in her right abdomen with injury to her liver, and a second was found in her left chest. Her body weighed just 71 pounds when discovered dismembered in the vehicle.
The manner of death was officially classified as homicide. Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo stated that releasing the findings was essential for transparency and to assist the family and community understand what happened.
Timeline of Events in the Case
Celeste Rivas Hernandez was reported missing in April 2024 after last contacting her family in May 2024. She was last seen alive in surveillance footage from September 2024 and January 2025. Her remains were found on September 8, 2025, in Los Angeles, California, inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla linked to David Burke.
Burke, a musician known for songs such as “Romantic Homicide” and “Here with Me,” was arrested in April 2026 and charged with first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14, and mutilation of human remains. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced the charges on April 20, 2026.
Toxicology and Additional Findings
The toxicology report released alongside the autopsy found no significant substances in Celeste’s system at the time of death. The Medical Examiner’s Office emphasized that the delay in releasing the report was due to the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings, but affirmed that the information is now being made public to support transparency, and accountability.
Statements from Family and Officials
Celeste’s family, represented by their attorney, issued a statement saying they are devastated by the findings but grateful that the information can now be shared. They described the loss as unfathomable and expressed appreciation for the Medical Examiner’s Office’s efforts to ensure the report’s release.
Officials noted that making autopsy findings public serves both legal and social purposes, helping to inform the public and potentially prevent future tragedies through awareness and accountability.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
David Burke remains in custody as the case proceeds through the Los Angeles County court system. He faces multiple felony charges related to the death and alleged abuse of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. No trial date has been set as of the latest available information.
About Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Celeste Abigail Rivas Hernandez was a 14-year-old girl from Lake Elsinore, California. Her parents immigrated from El Salvador. She had been reported missing multiple times in the year before her disappearance, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
About David Burke (D4vd)
David Burke, professionally known as D4vd, is an American singer-songwriter who gained recognition for tracks like “Romantic Homicide” and “Here with Me.” His music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and emotional struggle. He has no prior criminal record related to violence or abuse.