New Insights Emerge in the Celeste Rivas Murder Case
Court Documents Reveal Family of Singer D4vd Subpoenaed in Murder Case
Newly unsealed court documents from Texas have disclosed that Los Angeles County prosecutors are seeking testimony from the family of pop singer D4vd, also known as David Burke, as part of the investigation into the murder and dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Her remains were discovered in a Tesla sedan that had been impounded and taken to a tow yard.
According to the filings, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detectives and LA County prosecutors sought to compel the testimony of Burke’s father, mother, and brother in connection with the investigation. This development follows the revelation that Rivas Hernandez’s remains were found on September 8, after a tow yard manager noticed a foul odor emanating from the vehicle, which is registered to Burke.
The documents, which are typically sealed during a grand jury investigation, were made public after Burke’s family attempted to contest the subpoenas in Texas. A judge dismissed their challenges, leading to the disclosure of the court filings.
In those filings, prosecutors outlined that a search warrant was obtained for the Tesla. Upon opening the front compartment, detectives discovered a cadaver bag infested with insects, emitting a strong odor. Inside the bag, they found a human head and torso, as well as a second bag containing dismembered body parts.
On February 2, a Texas judge rejected attempts by Burke’s family to prevent the enforcement of these testimony demands. The family was ordered to appear before the grand jury during the week of February 9. However, due to the confidential nature of grand jury proceedings, it remains unclear whether they complied.
The LA County Department of Medical Examiner previously removed public information regarding the case last November, indicating that the cause of Rivas Hernandez’s death was undetermined at that time. Law enforcement sources revealed to NBC4 Investigates last year that they believe Rivas Hernandez died in the spring of 2024 and that multiple individuals may have been involved in her death and the disposal of her body. She was last seen alive in April 2024.
In an effort to gather more evidence, LAPD detectives searched a residence in the Hollywood Hills, where Burke was reportedly living. They were seen removing bags and various items believed to be evidence. This location is situated near the street where the Tesla was ticketed and impounded in early September.
Reports indicate that Burke has not been cooperating with law enforcement. Attempts to contact an attorney representing Burke have gone unanswered.
