The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has identified singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, as a suspect in the death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. This follows the discovery of her decomposing body in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to the singer. Authorities found the body on September 8, 2025, after responding to reports of a foul odour emanating from the vehicle at an impound lot in Hollywood. The Tesla had been parked on a public street for over 72 hours before being towed to the lot. The investigation remains active, with no arrests made so far.
David Anthony Burke, also known as ‘D4vd’
Background of the Victim
Celeste Rivas Hernandez was reported missing multiple times in 2024 from Lake Elsinore, California. She went missing for the last time in April 2024, following several instances of running away from home. Her family last heard from her at the end of May 2024. Celeste’s remains were discovered months later, a day after her 15th birthday, in the Tesla that belonged to the singer D4vd.
Circumstances of Discovery
The body was located wrapped in a bag inside the Tesla’s front trunk, in a state of decomposition. Police were alerted to the car by a tow yard after employees detected a strong odour. The vehicle was found abandoned on a public street and then impounded by city authorities. The Tesla had been moved several times over three months before the final discovery. The vehicle was issued a parking citation 11 days prior to the body’s discovery. 
The impounded Tesla was registered under D4vd’s name
Investigation Status
The Los Angeles County medical examiner has not yet determined the official cause or manner of death. While D4vd is considered a suspect, he has not been charged with any crime relating to Celeste’s death. The investigation also suggests the possibility of another individual assisting in disposing of the body. Law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at D4vd’s rental home near where the Tesla was parked. Several bags of evidence were seized during the search.
Got a citizen notification that D4vd is finally being considered as a suspect. Hope that’s true because there’s no way he’s innocent. pic.twitter.com/R0LfpHbfxN
— Damon Fizzy ␌ (@deefizzy) November 18, 2025
Singer’s Actions
Following the discovery of the body, D4vd cancelled his planned concert tour and moved out of his rental property in the Hollywood Hills. He has since been reported to be staying in Texas. Early claims by the singer’s representative that he cooperated with the police have been contradicted by law enforcement sources.
Profile of the Suspect
David Anthony Burke, professionally known as D4vd, is a 20-year-old singer known for hit songs such as “Here with Me” and “Romantic Homicide.” He enjoys over 33 million monthly listeners on Spotify. His music career has been significantly impacted by the ongoing investigation.
Timeline of Key Events
- April 5, 2024: Celeste Rivas Hernandez reported missing from Lake Elsinore.
- Multiple returns and runaways occurred before her final disappearance in late May 2024.
- September 3, 2025: Tesla registered to D4vd issued parking citation.
- September 5, 2025: Tesla impounded by city authorities.
- September 8, 2025: Celeste’s body found in Tesla trunk.
- September 17, 2025: LAPD executes search warrant on D4vd’s rental home.
- September 19, 2025: D4vd cancels world tour.
- September 24, 2025: Celeste’s body released back to the family; D4vd’s rental property is vacated.
Also Read: Remains of Missing Lake Elsinore Teen Discovered in Singer D4vd’s Impounded Tesla
Community and Legal Responses
The LAPD has confirmed ongoing investigations but has not released formal statements regarding charges. The community remains alert as law enforcement gathers more evidence. The case highlights continuing concerns about teen disappearances and safety in the region.
