Autopsy Confirms Penetrating Injuries in Teen's Death Linked to Singer D4vd
The autopsy report for Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the 14-year-old girl whom alt-pop singer D4vd is charged with killing, has been released after a prolonged legal delay, revealing she died from multiple penetrating wounds. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office determined in December that her death was a homicide caused by these injuries, but the report was sealed until prosecutors moved to lift the order this week.
Months of Secrecy and a Family's Anguish
Medical Examiner Dr. Odey C. Ukpo expressed relief that the information is now public, stating, "After several months, I am grateful this information can now be released, not only to the public, but also to the grieving family enduring loss. It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter." The report's release follows a judge's seal at law enforcement's request in November, which Ukpo has criticized, emphasizing his agency's independence and commitment to transparency.
Gruesome Discovery and Legal Charges
In September, police found Celeste's dismembered and decomposed remains in bags inside the trunk of a Tesla registered to D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, abandoned in the Hollywood Hills. The condition of her remains complicated the autopsy, delaying the cause-of-death determination. Burke, 21, was charged on Monday with first-degree murder, lewd acts with a minor under 14, and mutilating a dead body, pleading not guilty.
Allegations of Motive and Relationship
Prosecutors allege that Burke killed Celeste because she threatened to report their sexual relationship, which began when she was 13, fearing it would ruin his "lucrative" career. The murder charge includes special circumstances of lying in wait, financial gain, and killing a witness. According to the criminal complaint, he killed her with a sharp object and dismembered the body about two weeks later. Burke's attorneys maintain his innocence, claiming he did not cause her death.
Autopsy Findings and Physical Details
The autopsy report details significant wounds to Celeste's torso, likely from a sharp object, with one penetrating her liver. Due to decomposition, examiners could not determine her eye color. She had braces at the time of death and a tattoo reading "Shhh..." on the inside of a finger. The report also notes missing fingers and parts of her arms and legs, highlighting the brutality of the case.
Background and Investigative Context
Celeste was last seen going to Burke's home on April 23, 2025, and was never heard from again. Dr. Ukpo, who has led the medical examiner's office for three years, has advocated for making autopsy reports public unless compelled by court order, arguing that secrecy does not aid investigations. This case underscores ongoing issues in high-profile criminal proceedings involving celebrities and minors.
