Autopsy Report Released in D4vd Murder Case Reveals Penetrating Wounds
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has officially released an autopsy report confirming that 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez died from penetrating injuries. Her death has been ruled a homicide. The report, which had been sealed for months by a court order, was made public on Wednesday, 22 April 2026.
Case Background and Charges
Celeste Rivas Hernandez's dismembered and decomposed body was discovered in September inside two bags within the trunk of a Tesla parked in the Hollywood Hills. In November, a judge ordered the autopsy report sealed at the request of law enforcement. However, prosecutors agreed this week to permit its release.
The 21-year-old alt-pop singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, was charged on Monday with first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with a person under 14, and mutilating a dead body. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Prosecution's Allegations and Defence Response
Prosecutors allege that Burke killed the teenager because she threatened to report a sexual relationship that began when she was 13 years old. They claim he feared this would ruin his rising music career. A criminal complaint further alleges he killed her with a sharp object and dismembered the body approximately two weeks later.
Burke's attorneys have stated that he did not cause Rivas Hernandez's death and that they will vigorously defend his innocence.
Medical Examiner's Stance on Transparency
LA County's Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Odey C. Ukpo, has emphasised his agency's independence from law enforcement since taking over the role three years ago. He advocates for making their work as public as possible and does not believe sealing reports aids investigations. Dr. Ukpo stated he only withholds reports if compelled by a court order.
In a statement on Wednesday, Dr. Ukpo expressed gratitude that the information could finally be released. "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," he said. "It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter."
D4vd's Career and Timeline
D4vd, pronounced "David," gained popularity among young fans through his blend of indie rock, R&B, and lo-fi pop. He went viral on TikTok in 2022 with the hit song "Romantic Homicide," which peaked at number four on Billboard's Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. He released his debut EP "Petals to Thorns" and a follow-up, "The Lost Petals," in 2023.
His debut full-length album, "Withered," was released one year ago, just two days after the date prosecutors estimate that Celeste Rivas Hernandez was killed.
