Decomposed Body in Tesla Registered to Singer D4vd Identified as Missing Teen

On September 8, 2025, a disturbing discovery was made at a Hollywood tow yard: a foul odor emanating from a Tesla registered to singer D4vd (real name David Anthony Burke) led authorities to open the vehicle’s front trunk, commonly called the “frunk.” Inside, they found a decomposed body wrapped in a bag. The car had been abandoned on a public street in the Hollywood Hills and impounded after being towed, following several days where neighbors reported its presence.

In the following days, forensic testing by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the remains belonged to 15-year-old Celeste Rivas, a teen reported missing from Lake Elsinore, California, in 2024. She was last seen in April of that year, when she was 13. Rivas had not returned from several runaway episodes, and her disappearance had been a matter of concern for family and authorities.

What Authorities Know & Are Investigating

Many elements of the case remain under active investigation. The medical examiner has listed the cause of death as “deferred,” meaning it is not yet clear whether foul play or another factor led to Celeste’s death. LAPD is treating the incident as a homicide, and the Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the probe. No suspects have been officially named.

The body was found in the front trunk of the Tesla, in a state of decomposition, inside a bag. Authorities believe that the body may have been placed in the vehicle about five days before the car was towed to the impound lot. The Tesla was impounded after being identified as abandoned — neighbors said it had been parked in the same location for over a month.

Connection to D4vd and Public Reaction

The vehicle is registered to Burke, who has released several viral tracks including “Here With Me” and “Romantic Homicide,” and who is currently on tour. His representatives say he is cooperating with law enforcement. Thus far, there is no public evidence establishing how Burke might be connected to Celeste’s disappearance or death.

The similarity of a tattoo—“Shhh…” on the right index finger—between Celeste and D4vd has fueled speculation, especially after her mother remarked that her daughter had a boyfriend named David. However, the tattoo is not unique to one person, and other details linking Celeste and the singer have not been verified by authorities.

Following the discovery, D4vd’s Seattle show was canceled. Other upcoming performances are still listed, and social media and promotional partnerships are under scrutiny. Promotional brands associated with Burke have begun distancing themselves, removing images or altering content amid growing public interest and concern.

Wider Implications and Next Steps

This case is drawing significant attention because it involves a prominent public figure, a missing child, and serious questions about what led to her death. Key issues now include:

• Completion of the autopsy and toxicology reports to establish cause and manner of death.
• Clarification of timeline: exactly when Celeste was last seen, when her body was placed in the car, and who had access to the Tesla.
• Investigation of any digital or personal connections between Celeste and D4vd (or his associates), while avoiding unverified assumptions.
• Ensuring that any legal or criminal proceedings are supported by solid forensic evidence.