The death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas, whose decomposing body was discovered in the trunk of singer D4vd's Tesla on September 8th, 2025, continues to unravel a complex and disturbing mystery. Los Angeles detectives are meticulously piecing together the events leading up to her death, focusing their investigation on the Hollywood Hills home rented by the young musician.
Rivas, reported missing earlier in 2024 from the Inland Empire, was found in a vehicle impounded from a Hollywood Tow yard after a foul odor alerted authorities. The medical examiner determined she was 15, though her advanced state of decomposition suggested she may have died before her birthday. The car, bearing Texas license plates, contained Rivas' remains inside a bag.
On Wednesday evening, detectives executed a search warrant at D4vd's (David Anthony Burke) upscale Doheny Drive residence. Law enforcement sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the seizure of various items, including electronics and computers. While authorities state that 20-year-old D4vd is cooperating with the investigation, his representatives have not responded to requests for comment. Adding to the intrigue, D4vd recently cancelled a concert on his national tour.
A relative of Rivas, Gisel Vera, confirmed the family's current inability to comment on the ongoing investigation while also launching a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral arrangements. The relationship, if any, between D4vd and Rivas remains unclear, though online photos purporting to show them together have surfaced, their authenticity unverified by The Times.
A neighbor in the area recounted noticing the Tesla parked on the street for an extended period, describing it as "a little odd" due to its damaged condition and Texas license plate.
D4vd, raised in Houston, boasts collaborations with notable artists such as Kali Uchis, Stray Kids’ Hyunjin, Laufey, and 21 Savage. He also composed an anthem for the popular game, "Fortnite." His national tour supporting his debut album, "Withered," began in early August, and included stops in several major cities before the tragic discovery halted its progress. The tour promoter, Goldenvoice, has not issued any public statements, and the European leg of the tour remains scheduled for October.
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Originally published at: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-09-19/d4vd-celeste-rivas-final-days-evidence-hollywood-hills-home
