Everything You Need to Know About the d4vd Case: Celeste Rivas, the Tesla, and the Investigation
Singer d4vd (real name David Anthony Burke) is at the centre of a rapidly evolving investigation that has rocked music and media communities.
On September 8, 2025, human remains were found in the front trunk (“frunk”) of a Tesla registered in his name. After days of uncertainty, the body was confirmed to be 15-year-old Celeste Rivas, who had been missing since April 5, 2024. The following details are what is known so far — as well as what remains to be verified.
What’s Confirmed
Discovery date & location: On September 8, 2025, a Tesla registered to d4vd was impounded at a Hollywood tow yard after workers noticed a foul odor. In the front trunk, human remains—severely decomposed and wrapped in a bag—were found. San Francisco Chronicle+3AP News+3ABC News+3
Victim identification: The deceased has been officially identified as Celeste Rivas, 15 years old. She was reported missing in April 2024 (when she was around 13) from Lake Elsinore, California. The Guardian+3Los Angeles Times+3AP News+3
Cause of death & status: The cause of death is not yet determined; the medical examiner’s office has deferred judgment because of the condition of the remains. The investigation is being treated with suspicion (potential homicide) but no homicide classification has been formally established. AP News+2Los Angeles Times+2
Tattoo identification: Celeste had a tattoo reading “Shhh…” on her right index finger. It’s also been reported that d4vd has a matching tattoo. However, no legal conclusion has been drawn simply from this fact. The Guardian+3Los Angeles Times+3The Independent+3
Cooperation & investigation steps: d4vd’s representatives say he is fully cooperating with authorities. A search warrant was executed on a house in Hollywood Hills where he had been staying. Police recovered computers and other items from that property. ABC7 Los Angeles+2Los Angeles Times+2
Tour / scheduling impact: Following the discovery, d4vd canceled a Seattle show (September 17) while other dates proceeded or are still scheduled. Brands associated with him, including Crocs and Hollister, have reportedly removed campaign content featuring him. Los Angeles Times+2Indiatimes+2
What’s Still Unclear
Manner of death: It’s not established whether Celeste’s death is ruled a homicide, suicide, or accidental. The heavily decomposed state of the body complicates early efforts. AP News+1
Timeline & how long the body was in the car: Authorities indicate the remains had been in the vehicle for an “extended period,” but exactly how long is under investigation. AP News+1
Relationship between d4vd and Celeste: There are reports and speculation (including the matching tattoo, and that Celeste had, according to family statements, referred to someone named “David”) but nothing has been legally confirmed. The Independent+2Los Angeles Times+2
Why the Tesla was abandoned & impounded: The car was seen parked for days/abandoned, then impounded. The exact circumstances of abandonment—who had the car just before, when the body was placed inside, etc.—are not yet public.
Fallout / Reactions
Public and media response: The story has triggered widespread media coverage and social media discussion, especially given d4vd’s online popularity and the circumstances. Celeste’s family has spoken out, expressing heartbreak and setting up a GoFundMe for funeral arrangements. E! Online+1
Industry response: Some collaborators and brands have pulled back from working with or promoting d4vd. For example, Kali Uchis has begun removing their joint track “Crashing” from streaming and distanced herself from the singer. The Independent+1
Law enforcement actions: LAPD executed a search warrant at a Hollywood Hills home associated with d4vd. Evidence, including digital items (computers, etc.), was collected. ABC7 Los Angeles+1
What Comes Next
The investigation is ongoing. We’re waiting on:
Coroner’s full report and cause of death
Any charges, should evidence support them
Clarification on the relationship (if any) between d4vd and Celeste
Further statements from d4vd, his legal representation, or his team
Public scrutiny is likely to increase as more details emerge, especially given the social media speculation and matching tattoo stories.
Final Thoughts
This is a developing story with serious consequences. For now, facts are few, but the questions are many—and they merit answers. The case touches on issues of missing minors, the speed of public response when viral artists are involved, and how rumors can spread before evidence is solid. As more updates come in, we’ll keep tracking what’s confirmed vs. what’s clouded in speculation.
