LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell walks past an image of Celeste Rivas Hernandez on Monday, April 20, 2026, in Los Angeles after a press conference regarding the case of singer D4vd, who was charged on suspicion of killing the 14-year-old girl whose dismembered body was found in his car. (PC: The Associated Press)
An autopsy report has revealed new details in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, in a case where singer D4vd has been charged with murder. The report confirms the teenager died from penetrating injuries and classifies her death as a homicide.
Autopsy Confirms Cause of Death
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, Celeste died from penetrating wounds to her upper body. The report identified two injuries to the torso that may have been caused by a sharp object.
One wound penetrated the liver through the upper abdomen, while another injured the chest and ribs. The clothing she was wearing showed signs of cuts, which investigators noted during the examination.
The condition of the body limited the findings. Officials reported advanced decomposition and dismemberment, which made a full assessment difficult.
Body Found in Hollywood Hills
Celeste’s remains were discovered in September inside a Tesla parked in the Hollywood Hills. Investigators found parts of her body placed in separate bags inside the trunk.
Due to the state of decomposition, some identifying details could not be determined. However, examiners noted she had braces and a small tattoo on her finger.
The autopsy report had been withheld for several months following a court order but was released this week after prosecutors agreed to make it public.
Singer Charged, Denies Allegations
The accused, 21-year-old singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, was formally charged earlier this week. The charges include first-degree murder, committing sexual acts with a minor, and mutilation of a body.
Burke has pleaded not guilty. His legal team has denied the allegations and stated they intend to contest the charges in court.
Prosecution Outlines Motive
Prosecutors allege that Burke killed the teenager after she threatened to report an alleged relationship between them. According to the complaint, the relationship began when she was 13.
Authorities claim the killing involved a sharp object, and the dismemberment occurred weeks later. These claims will be central to the case as it proceeds.
Family Speaks Publicly
Celeste’s parents have shared their grief publicly for the first time. In a statement, they described their daughter as strong and full of life, with a love for singing and spending time with family.
They expressed deep sorrow over her loss and said they are seeking justice.
Medical Examiner Defends Transparency
The county’s chief medical examiner stated that the report was released to ensure transparency and to provide clarity for the family.
He noted that delays in releasing such reports can be difficult for those affected and emphasized the importance of making findings public when legally possible.
Case Continues to Develop
The investigation remains ongoing as the legal process moves forward. The case has drawn attention due to the serious nature of the charges and the public profile of the accused.
Further proceedings in court are expected to determine the outcome, as both prosecution and defense prepare their arguments.
