On September 8, 2025, the body of a teenage girl was found in the front trunk (“frunk”) of a Tesla belonging to American singer‑songwriter D4vd (real name David Anthony Burke). The vehicle, registered under Burke’s name and bearing Texas plates, had been towed from the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles after a “foul odour” complaint.

Investigators found that the body had been in the vehicle for “several weeks,” according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).

Who Was Celeste Rivas Hernandez?

Celeste Rivas Hernandez was a teenager from Lake Elsinore, California. She was last reported missing on April 5, 2024. At the time of her disappearance she was around 13 years old.

Prior to the discovery of her body, she had been reported missing several times in 2024.

Her family later described her as a beloved daughter, sister, cousin and friend—caught up in a tragedy that stunned her community.

Key Investigation Details

Here are some of the most significant facts uncovered so far:

Multiple prior missing‑person reports: Celeste had reportedly been missing in February, March and April of 2024.

Vehicle possession and discovery: The Tesla in question, registered to Burke, was found parked/impounded in Hollywood Hills area, and the body discovered in its frunk.

Condition of the remains: Celeste’s body was in a severely decomposed state, making details like time of death difficult to determine.

Autopsy status: The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner performed an autopsy; toxicology results are pending. The cause and manner of death remain deferred.

No charges yet: As of now, Burke has not been named as a suspect or formally charged in connection with her death.

Police search: A search warrant was executed at a Hollywood Hills residence rented by Burke, and items of evidence were seized.

The Celebrity Connection & Public Reaction

The association with D4vd adds layers of complexity—public figures attract intense scrutiny, especially in cases involving minors. Some of the points:

Both Celeste and Burke reportedly had matching tattoos on their right index fingers reading “Shhh…”.

The case has generated broad media coverage and social‑media speculation — especially given the serious nature of the discovery and the fact a minor was involved.

One of Burke’s collaborators, Kali Uchis, publicly distanced herself, announcing the removal of a song featuring him.

The singer’s manager, Josh Marshall, responded to rumours on TikTok, denying knowledge or involvement in the case.

Open Questions & Investigative Issues

While much has been reported, key questions remain unanswered—and they are critical.

How and when did Celeste die? The medical examiner has deferred the cause and manner of death pending further testing.

What was Celeste’s relationship to Burke? Investigators are looking into the nature of any connection, but as of yet no official link has been confirmedHow did her body end up in the Tesla frunk? And who placed it there? These are central questions investigators are working on.

Were there warning signs? The fact that deputies responded to her home multiple times raises questions about whether earlier interventions could have prevented this outcome.

What is the timeline from disappearance to discovery? Celeste was missing for over a year, but exactly when, where and how events transpired remain murky.

What This Case Highlights

Beyond the specifics, this case touches on broader issues worth reflection:

Missing‑kids vulnerability: When minors disappear or run away, the window for protection can be narrow. Celeste’s multiple missing‑person reports illustrate how the pattern of runaway or missing minor can foreshadow worse outcomes.

The influence of celebrity culture: The fact that a pop star and social‑media figure is involved prompts scrutiny of power, influence and the responsibilities that come with public visibility.

The challenge of forensic timelines: With decomposition, abandoned vehicles and delayed reporting, determining things like time of death becomes very difficult, affecting justice outcomes.

Media, rumours & public perception: In high‑profile cases, speculation spreads rapidly (especially via social media). Investigators face additional pressure to manage leaks, misinformation and narrative control.

What Happens Next?

Here’s what to watch for in the coming weeks or months:

Release of medical‑examiner findings: Once toxicology and other forensic tests are complete, there may be a ruling on cause/manner of death.

Potential charges: If foul play is established and a suspect identified, criminal charges could follow.

Further forensic evidence: Warrants executed at the Hollywood Hills property and at other locations may yield clues.

Public statements or indictments: If the investigation leads to arrests or significant developments, there may be public disclosures.

Impacts on social‑media/culture: Given the youth of the victim and the celebrity tie‑in, this case may fuel discussions on youth safety, celebrity influence, and missing minors.

Final Thoughts

The case of Celeste Rivas Hernandez is tragic, haunting and complex. It raises difficult questions about how we protect vulnerable youth, how fame and power intersect with responsibility, and how investigations unfold when the ordinary meets the celebrity world.

At this point, despite heavy public interest and media speculation, the investigation remains in a relatively early phase. The key remains waiting on forensic conclusions, law‑enforcement findings and whether criminal accountability will follow.