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The cause of death for 14 year old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has been officially released, just days after singer D4vd was charged in connection with the case.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the teenager died from multiple penetrating injuries caused by one or more objects. Her death was ruled a homicide. The findings were shared publicly on April 22 after previously being sealed during the investigation.
The autopsy report indicates that she sustained two penetrating wounds to the torso along with other severe physical trauma. Toxicology results showed alcohol in her system, and initial screenings suggested the presence of several substances, including benzodiazepines, methamphetamines and MDMA. However, follow up testing was unable to confirm some of these findings due to interfering substances.
Authorities confirmed that the examination was conducted in September 2025, with the official cause and manner of death determined in December of that year. The delay in releasing the information had been due to the ongoing criminal investigation.
Prosecutors allege that the victim's remains were discovered on September 8, 2025 inside the trunk of a Tesla registered to the 21 year old artist after reports of a strong odor at a tow yard. The discovery came one day after her 15th birthday. She had previously been reported missing from Lake Elsinore, California.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that investigators believe the killing occurred in April 2025. Prosecutors further allege that the suspect attempted to conceal the crime by leaving the remains in the vehicle for several months.
The case also includes allegations of prolonged abuse, with court documents claiming the victim had been subjected to repeated misconduct over a period of time. Prosecutors argue that the motive may have been to prevent her from revealing information that could harm the suspect's career.
David Anthony Burke was arrested on April 16 and has since been charged with murder, continuous abuse of a minor under 14 and unlawful handling of human remains. He has pleaded not guilty and is being held without bail ahead of a preliminary hearing scheduled for April 23.
If convicted, he could face life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet confirmed whether they will pursue capital punishment. His legal team has denied the allegations and stated that they intend to challenge the case in court.
