The 14-year-old girl discovered dead in the car of TikTok star D4vd died from multiple stab wounds, the Los Angeles County medical examiner's office announced Wednesday, ruling her death a homicide.
Celeste Rivas Hernandez was found in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to the singer, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, in September. The 21-year-old musician faces murder charges and has pleaded not guilty.
According to the autopsy report obtained by the BBC, stab wounds were found on her abdomen and chest. Investigators also found shredded blue plastic in some of the wounds. Her body was discovered in a black zippered bag in the front boot of the car.
Toxicology tests detected methamphetamine, MDMA, and a low level of alcohol in her system, but officials said these did not contribute to her death.
Prosecutors allege the teen was killed and her body dismembered on or around May 5, 2025, months before she was found. Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo criticized the delay in releasing the findings, saying, "It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter."
Burke's attorneys maintain his innocence. "We will vigorously defend David's innocence," his legal team said in a statement. He is due in Los Angeles court Thursday.
The teen's family issued their first public statement this week, thanking authorities and calling for justice. "Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance," her parents said. "All we want is justice for Celeste."
Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the case as "a parent's nightmare," noting that Rivas Hernandez went to Burke's home in April and was never heard from again. Police defended the lengthy investigation, with Chief Jim McDonnell stating, "My duty is not to fuel speculation. It's to deliver justice."