In this Spanish name, the first or paternal surname is Rivas and the second or maternal family name is Hernandez.

Killing of Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Rivas in an undated photograph
Date
  • April 5, 2024 (2024-04-05) (reported missing)
  • c. April 23, 2025 (died)
  • September 8, 2025 (2025-09-08) (body discovered)
Location Hollywood Hills, California, U.S.
Type Child homicide
Accused David Burke, also known as D4vd
Charges
  • First-degree murder with special circumstances (3 counts)[a]
  • First-degree murder
  • Continuous sexual abuse of a child
  • Use of a deadly weapon
  • Mutilation of human remains

On September 8, 2025, the remains of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez were discovered in Los Angeles, California, inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla registered to David Burke, a musician known professionally as D4vd.[b] In April 2026, Burke was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with an individual under 14, and mutilating a body.[2][3][4]

Background

Celeste Rivas Hernandez

Celeste Abigail Rivas Hernandez was a 14-year-old[c] girl from Lake Elsinore, California.[5][6] Born to parents who immigrated from El Salvador,[7] Rivas was reported missing three times in the final year of her life, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office.[8] She last ran away in April 2024 and last contacted her family in May 2024.[9] Surveillance footage and digital evidence revealed that Rivas was alive in September 2024 and January 2025.[10]

David Burke (D4vd)

Main article: D4vd
D4vd in 2024

David Burke, professionally known as D4vd, is an American singer-songwriter. He is best known for his songs "Romantic Homicide" and "Here with Me", which often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and relationship struggles. In 2025, Burke released the album Withered and announced a world tour with performances across North America and Europe.[11]

Relationship between Burke and Rivas

After the discovery of Rivas's body, photographs allegedly showing them together surfaced. Rivas's mother stated that her daughter had a boyfriend named "David", and Rivas and Burke had matching tattoos.[8][12] Rivas's brother told NBCLA that she went missing after Burke picked her up in his car.[13] Sources reported that she resided in a rental property with Burke and met him through the internet.[14] Rivas was allegedly a member of Burke's official server in the messaging app Discord as early as 2022, evidenced by the presence of a user with the username "Celeste", whom other users at the time referred to as Burke's girlfriend.[15][16] In the summer of 2024, by the time Rivas was reported missing, Burke claimed to be "in a song crisis" in the same server, to which an anonymous user replied "Drop the one with the missing girl Celeste Rivas Hernandez"; Burke did not reply to this message.[17]

Discovery of the body

On September 9, 2025, Burke performed at The Fillmore Minneapolis as part of his Withered tour.[18][19] The day before, heavily decomposed human remains were discovered in Los Angeles inside the front trunk of an impounded car registered to Burke.[20][21][22][23] The discovery came after the LAPD was called by a tow yard worker to investigate a foul odor emanating from the vehicle.[18][24] The remains were found in a black bag in the front trunk.[25][26]

An LAPD captain told KABC-TV the body was at least partially dismembered but not decapitated.[9] The car was first parked on Bluebird Avenue in Hollywood Hills in late July 2025.[27] On September 3, the vehicle was cited for violating the 72-hour parking ordinance and was impounded and towed to a Hollywood yard two days later.[28][29][30] The LAPD confirmed the vehicle was ticketed 11 days before the discovery, suggesting the body was likely in the trunk for the entire period it was abandoned.[28][30][31]

On September 16, 2025, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified the body as that of Celeste Rivas Hernandez[5][32] through forensic examination due to advanced decomposition.[25] Found a day after her 15th birthday, she is believed to have died a considerable amount of time before her body was discovered.[33] Identification of the cause of death has proven to be difficult due to the body's advanced state of decomposition.[34] Sources close to the investigation told news outlets she may have died in Spring 2025.[35][36]

Investigation

On September 18, 2025, LAPD investigators executed a search warrant at a Hollywood Hills property occupied by Burke[32] and seized electronic devices, including a computer.[37] A private investigator hired by the property owner reported finding a "burn cage" incinerator.[38] Burke's manager terminated the property's lease shortly after the search, and he moved out.[39] Burke has retained a criminal defense attorney known for representing celebrities.[40]

LAPD Robbery-Homicide Capt. Scot Williams stated that no suspect had been identified in Rivas's death, citing the undetermined cause of death and uncertainty about criminal culpability beyond concealment of her body.[41] Investigators suspect multiple people were involved in disposing of the body.[36][42] LAPD investigators were focusing on a trip to Santa Barbara County in spring 2025 by Burke and its potential relationship to the case.[43][44]

On November 26, the Los Angeles Times confirmed that an investigative grand jury had been convened over the course of the month to hear evidence regarding possible charges relating to Rivas's death.[27] Executives at Burke's record label were questioned.[45]

Court order and medical examiner's response

On November 21, 2025, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) obtained a court order to place a security hold on the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's case file for Rivas (case number 2025-14252), preventing the release of any details, including the cause and manner of death.[46] The order was granted by Los Angeles Superior Court judge Craig Richman, who sealed the medical examiner's findings, including autopsy results, citing potential risks to the investigation or witnesses.[27]

The Medical Examiner's office, led by Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo, publicly criticized the order, stating that security holds are rare and not proven to improve investigative outcomes. Ukpo noted that the LAPD had previously requested a hold on September 15, 2025, which was denied due to insufficient justification.[46] The office reiterated its commitment to transparency but acknowledged it was legally bound to comply with the court order until it is lifted.[14] In a court declaration, LAPD Det. Joshua Byers of the Robbery-Homicide Division argued that releasing autopsy details could reveal investigative strategies, witness identities, or informant information, potentially endangering lives or compromising the case.[27] The judge ordered Byers' declaration and related documents sealed until further notice.[14]

Public statement from LAPD

On November 24, 2025, the LAPD publicly characterized the case as an "investigation into murder" for the first time, a shift from earlier statements that avoided classifying Rivas's death as a homicide.[14][47] LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton stated that "accountability is coming" and assured that detectives were actively pursuing justice for Rivas, emphasizing that "no one is off the table, including Burke."[14] The department also clarified that Rivas's body was neither frozen nor decapitated, addressing widespread misinformation. Investigators confirmed that the Tesla had been parked on Bluebird Avenue since late July 2025, around the time Burke began his national tour, and that evidence suggested Rivas may have died in spring 2025.[14][47]

Forensic and toxicology reports

Autopsy results to determine the cause of Rivas's death, which were deemed "deferred", remained pending as of September 2025.[20][48] The LAPD filed a court order in November to block the medical examiner from releasing their findings related to the death of Rivas, which the medical examiner has legally challenged.[14]

Burke was named a suspect in the investigation in November 2025.[35] He retained criminal defense attorney Blair Berk, known for representing other major celebrities, at that point in time.[40]

Arrest of David Burke

A black male with facial hair
Mugshot of Burke

On April 16, 2026, Burke was arrested by the Los Angeles Police Department in connection with the death of Rivas. He is reportedly being held without bail pending a court appearance.[49][50]

On April 20, 2026, the Los Angeles Police Department and the District Attorney's Office announced that Burke would be charged with first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14, and mutilation of a body. LA County District attorney Nathan Hochman stated the case includes special circumstances of lying in wait and financial gain, alleging Burke killed Celeste to protect his music career. He is also accused of murdering a witness, with evidence expected to show the victim was involved in an investigation into alleged sexual acts committed by Burke while she was under 14. Prosecutors indicated they will consider the death penalty.[3] On the same day, Burke appeared in court for the first time since his arrest, and pleaded not guilty to all charges.[51][52]

Prosecution

Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman of the Major Crimes Division will serve as the lead prosecutor.[53] Silverman claimed that the prosecution has amassed "40 terabytes" worth of evidence for the case.[54]

Civil litigation

As of November 2025, the family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez were considering filing a civil lawsuit against the LAPD to force the release of evidence and records related to the investigation. They voted delays in the investigation and a lack of transparency from law enforcement as their reasons. Attorney Neama Rahmani suggested that the family could pursue a civil suit to obtain the withheld information, emphasizing that concealing a body is a crime regardless of the circumstances of the death.[55][10]

Reactions

Tour cancellation

Days after the discovery of Rivas's body, the remainder of Burke's "Withered 2025 World Tour" was canceled and his shows in Los Angeles and California were canceled.[56]

Vigils and memorials

A vigil for Rivas was held in Lake Elsinore,[18][5] and her body was released to her family for memorial services.[57] On October 6, 2025, Rivas was buried at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Rowland Heights, California, following a private funeral service.[33]

Industry and collaborator reactions

After the discovery of Rivas's body, singer-songwriter Kali Uchis pulled the song collaboration "Crashing" from streaming services and stated that Burke is "not my friend. I did a song with him, which is currently in the process of being taken down."[58] Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey quietly pulled the song "This Is How It Feels" from streaming services.[59] Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu announced she would be changing her routine, which included the Laufey song.[60] Burke's song "What Are You Waiting For" was removed from the soundtrack for Madden NFL 26 without a statement from the publisher, EA Sports.[61] He was also removed from the Spilt Milk 2025 festival lineup.[62] English singer Holly Humberstone also quietly removed ‘’superbloodmoon’’, which features Burke, from all streaming platforms.[citation needed]

Public and media reactions

The case has garnered significant media attention due to Burke's public persona and the circumstances of Rivas's death. Burke's music, which often explores dark themes such as violence and death, has been scrutinized in light of the investigation. For example, his music video for "Romantic Homicide" features imagery of a bloodied woman and a blindfolded figure, while the video for "One More Dance" depicts a person being stuffed into a car trunk.[14] Public speculation intensified after the LAPD confirmed it was investigating a trip Burke made to Santa Barbara County in spring 2025, though its relevance to the case remains unclear.[14] The department's unusual decision to seek a court-ordered secrecy hold on the medical examiner's report further fueled discussion about transparency and the handling of high-profile cases.[46]

Timeline of events

Date Event
February 15, 2024 Celeste Rivas Hernandez reported missing (first report).[32]
April 5, 2024 Rivas reported missing (final official report).[13]
May 2024 Last confirmed telephone contact with family.[7]
September 2024 Surveillance footage shows Rivas alive at her family home in Lake Elsinore.[10][failed verification]
January 2, 2025 Digital evidence suggests Rivas was alive.[10]
Spring 2025 Estimated time of death (prosecution theory).[10]
Late July 2025 Car registered to Burke parked on Bluebird Avenue, unused and dirty.[63]
August 28, 2025 Car ticketed for violating 72-hour parking ordinance.[64]
September 3, 2025 Car towed to Hollywood tow yard after exceeding parking limit.[65]
September 8, 2025 Body of Rivas discovered in the trunk of Burke's car.[66]
September 16, 2025 Body identified as Rivas by Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.[67]
September 28, 2025 LAPD confirms body had been dead for several weeks prior to discovery.[68]
November 15, 2025 LAPD requests a second security hold on the medical examiner's report for Rivas, which is granted by a judge on November 21, sealing all details, including the cause of death.[46][14]
November 24, 2025 LAPD publicly classifies the case as an "investigation into murder" for the first time. Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton states, "Accountability is coming", and confirms no one, including Burke, is ruled out as a suspect.[14][47]
November 26, 2025 Reports emerge that a Los Angeles County grand jury is hearing evidence in the case, with testimony ongoing since mid-November. Prosecutors, led by Deputy Dist. Atty. Beth Silverman is presenting evidence to the grand jury.[27]
February 26, 2026 Reports emerge that Burke is the target of a Los Angeles County grand jury investigation with documents stating that Burke "may be involved in having committed the following criminal offenses against the laws of the State of California, to wit: One count of Murder".[69]
April 16, 2026 Burke arrested on suspicion of murder.[70]
April 20, 2026 The Los Angeles Police Department and the District Attorney's Office announced that Burke would be charged with first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14, and mutilation of a body. DA Hochman stated the case includes special circumstances of lying in wait and financial gain, alleging Burke killed Rivas to protect his music career. He is also accused of murdering a witness, with evidence expected to show the victim was involved in an investigation into alleged sexual acts committed by Burke while she was under 14. Prosecutors indicated they will seek the death penalty.[3]

Public statements

Family statements

Rivas's family has expressed profound grief and devastation over her death, describing her as a beloved daughter, sister, cousin, and friend.[71] The community in Lake Elsinore has shown significant support, with vigils held in her honor.[72] The family has been vocal about their desire for a thorough investigation and accountability for all responsible.[73]

LAPD statements

The LAPD has remained quiet regarding the investigation to avoid jeopardizing the case.[74] They have confirmed the investigation is ongoing and that they are thoroughly examining every aspect of the case to seek justice for Celeste and her family.[75] The LAPD has also confirmed that Burke is considered a suspect and that investigators believe her death occurred in the spring, months before her remains were discovered.[76]

Burke has retained criminal defense attorney Blair Berk to represent him as the investigation continues.[77] His management team at Darkroom/Interscope Records has not provided official statements, and the record label has effectively frozen his career since the discovery of the body.[78] Robert Morgenroth, general manager of Mogul Vision, testified before the grand jury and was questioned about the singer's movements and the handling of the case.[79]

"Celeste"

An unreleased song, reportedly titled "Celeste",[80][81][82] surfaced online in December 2023 and again in September 2025. Media outlets speculated that the track was seemingly recorded by Burke,[80][81][83] but its authenticity and circumstances of its circulation could not be independently confirmed.[84] The song is unreleased,[84] but surfaced online shortly after media had identified the body of Rivas.[85][86] Some social media users have suggested that it had initially been shared on Discord servers before spreading more widely.[85]

Some sources, including iHeart, said the song was titled as "Celeste_Demo unfin"[87][83][88] when first revealed in December 2023.[84][86][80] The song is a nearly four-minute track,[88][81] including lyrics such as, "Be my valentine / I wanna make cupid* suicidal"[85][81] and "Oh, Celeste / The girl with my name tattooed on her chest / Smell her on my clothes like cigarettes / I hear her voice each time I take a breath / I'm obsessed."[87][85][81][89]

Notes

  1. ^ Special circumstances of:
    • Murder for financial gain
    • Murder to prevent testimony
    • Murder by lying in wait
  2. ^ Pronounced "David".[1]
  3. ^ While Rivas's body was found one day after her 15th birthday, decomposition suggested she had died before turning 15.

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