The Los Angeles County medical examiner's office announced on Wednesday that the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose body was discovered in September in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to TikTok star D4vd (David Anthony Burke), has been officially ruled a homicide. Officials stated she died from "multiple penetrating injuries" caused by an undisclosed object or objects, with the report detailing stab wounds to her abdomen and chest, and fragments of blue plastic found in some wounds.

Although her body was found in September 2025, the cause and manner of death were determined in December but withheld from public release during the police investigation. A toxicology report indicated the presence of methamphetamine or MDMA and a low level of alcohol in her system, though these were not factors in her death. Prosecutors allege the teen was killed and dismembered on or around May 5, 2025, at least four months before her remains were located.

D4vd (David Anthony Burke) faces charges including murder in connection with her death; he has pleaded not guilty, and his attorneys stated they will "vigorously defend his innocence." The victim's parents issued their first public statement this week, describing Celeste as a "beautiful, strong girl" and calling for justice. Family attorney Patrick Steinfeld noted the family was "devastated" by the gruesome details revealed in court.

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell defended the handling of the case, citing the need for "patience and discipline" to secure justice, as the condition of the body and the time elapsed between death and discovery led to degraded or lost evidence. District Attorney Nathan Hochman highlighted challenges in interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence, which delayed charges. Burke is currently held without bail, his world tour has been canceled, and brand deals have reportedly been terminated.

Source: www.bbc.com