This week, the investigation surrounding the tragic case of Celeste Rivas, a 15-year-old girl whose decomposing body was found in an abandoned Tesla vehicle, has intensified. The car, registered to rising singer D4vd, gained national attention following the grim discovery, which was first reported earlier this month. Now, authorities have confirmed the identity of the deceased as Rivas, an Inland Empire resident who had been reported missing since April.
Many questions linger regarding the circumstances of Rivas's death. How did the Tesla end up abandoned on the street, and what led to it being impounded? The exact cause of death has not yet been disclosed by the authorities, but it is being treated as a homicide. Additionally, the connection between the young girl and the singer remains unclear. Investigators from the Los Angeles Police Department are delving into Rivas's activities leading up to her tragic demise, particularly any ties she may have had with D4vd.
As the investigation unfolds, sources indicate that there are currently no persons of interest in the case, as Rivas's death has not been officially categorized as a homicide. However, D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, is reportedly cooperating fully with the police. Representatives for the 20-year-old artist have not responded to requests for comment, but the artist is under scrutiny due to the circumstances surrounding the case.
According to two law enforcement sources, investigators are analyzing photos shared online to trace Rivas’s movements before her body was discovered. They have also executed a search warrant at the singer's residence in Hollywood Hills, indicating the seriousness of the investigation.
The circumstances of Rivas's discovery are deeply unsettling. Her severely decomposed body was found inside the Tesla on September 8, after the vehicle had been impounded. It was initially abandoned in the Hollywood Hills five days prior to its impoundment. A foul odor emanating from the car led to its investigation by detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department. Reports indicate that Rivas's remains were contained within a bag, raising more questions about the timeline of events.
Celeste Rivas was reported missing on April 5, 2024, as confirmed by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. Identified by a tattoo on her right index finger reading “Shhh...,” Rivas's identity was corroborated by a woman claiming to be her mother, who reached out to TMZ. Interestingly, recent images of D4vd have shown him sporting a similar tattoo, drawing further speculation about any potential link between the singer and Rivas.
When her body was discovered, Rivas was wearing a tube top and small black leggings. Descriptions also noted her wavy black hair, a metal stud earring, and a yellow metal chain bracelet. A statement from the medical examiner’s office revealed, “The decedent was found severely decomposed inside a vehicle,” indicating that she had likely been deceased for an extended period before being found.
Despite the ongoing investigation, authorities have reiterated that Burke is cooperating with their inquiries. Burke, who has experienced a meteoric rise as a Billboard charting artist, has recently canceled a concert as part of his national tour, which has raised eyebrows among fans and industry insiders alike. The musician, who hails from Houston, Texas, has collaborated with notable artists such as Kali Uchis and 21 Savage, and has even created an anthem for the popular game, Fortnite.
Since the beginning of his tour in August, Burke has performed in cities including Boston, Montreal, and Toronto, with plans to conclude the U.S. leg of his tour in Los Angeles at the iconic Greek Theatre. However, recent reports indicate that brands such as Crocs and Hollister have opted to withdraw their association with the artist amid the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, seeking answers and justice for Celeste Rivas. The unfolding events highlight the complexities surrounding celebrity culture and its potential intersections with tragic circumstances.
