Girl, 14, found in singer D4vd's car died of 'multiple injuries'

April 23, 2026

The Los Angeles County medical examiner has ruled that 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez died from multiple penetrating injuries, officially classifying her death as a homicide. The teenager's body was discovered in September in a Tesla belonging to TikTok musician D4vd (David Anthony Burke), though prosecutors believe she was killed in early May, four months before being found. Burke, who has pleaded not guilty to murder charges and maintains his innocence through his legal team, faces his next court appearance following months of investigation delays.

Who is affected

Celeste Rivas Hernandez (14-year-old victim, deceased)
Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez (Celeste's parents)
The Rivas Hernandez family
David Anthony Burke/D4vd (21-year-old musician facing murder charges)
Residents of Lake Elsinore community
D4vd's fans (tour cancelled)
Brands that had deals with D4vd (deals reportedly axed)

What action is being taken

Burke is being held without bail
Burke's defense attorneys are defending his innocence
Prosecutors are pursuing murder charges against Burke
Los Angeles Police Department is requesting anyone with additional information to come forward
Investigators are interviewing multiple people in connection with the case

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic loss of a young teenager and represents a parent's worst nightmare when a child disappears and never returns home. The significant delays in releasing cause of death information—though necessary for protecting the investigation—caused extended suffering for an already grieving family. The case involves a high-profile TikTok musician, bringing public attention to the investigation while raising questions about the lengthy timeline between the teen's disappearance in April, the discovery of her body in September, and the eventual arrest seven months later.

What's next

Burke is due back in Los Angeles court on Thursday at 0830 local time (1630 BST)
The case will proceed through the court system with Burke's defense team mounting their defense

Read full article from source: BBC