Singer D4vd Identified as Suspect in Teen’s Death Investigation

Los Angeles authorities have identified singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, as a suspect in the death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas. Her decomposed remains were discovered on September 8, 2024, in his Tesla, prompting investigators to treat the case as a potential homicide. Reports from law enforcement sources indicate that the investigation is focused on Burke, who is currently 20 years old.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has not yet established a cause or manner of death, as they await toxicology results from the medical examiner. According to an LAPD source who spoke with NBC4 Los Angeles, investigators believe that Rivas’ death likely occurred in the spring of 2024, and that Burke may have received assistance in dismembering and disposing of her body. The source also noted that Burke has not been cooperative during the investigation.

The discovery of Rivas’ body occurred after tow yard workers reported a foul odor emanating from the Tesla, which had been impounded for over 72 hours following reports of it being abandoned in the Hollywood Hills. Upon inspection, officers found Rivas’ remains inside a plastic bag located in the vehicle’s front trunk. At the time of the discovery, officials indicated that the body was too decomposed to ascertain even the sex of the individual due to the prolonged exposure to the heat of the Los Angeles summer.

Rivas, a resident of Lake Elsinore, had been reported missing on April 5, 2024. Her brother, Matthew Rivas, confirmed that family members knew she had an acquaintance with Burke. Reports from TMZ suggested that Rivas’ mother mentioned her daughter was dating someone named “David” around the time of her disappearance.

D4vd, who gained popularity through viral hits on social media platform TikTok, has since canceled his world tour following the unsettling revelation of the remains. Since the incident, he has refrained from making any public statements regarding the investigation. The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division continues to actively pursue the case as new evidence emerges.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains in shock over the tragic developments surrounding Rivas’ death and the involvement of a rising music star. The LAPD has urged anyone with additional information to come forward as they work diligently to uncover the circumstances leading up to this tragic event.