The cause of the teen's death in D4vd's car has been confirmed after months of delays
An autopsy reveals the 14-year-old died from multiple stab wounds, and the findings were only released after the singer was charged
At a glance
What matters most
- Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14, died from multiple stab wounds, according to a newly released autopsy report
- The medical examiner had determined the cause of death months ago but was blocked from releasing it
- Singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, was charged with murder this week
- The delay in releasing the autopsy has raised questions about transparency in the investigation
Across the spectrum
What people are saying
A quick look at how the same story is being framed from different angles.
On the Left
This case highlights how power imbalances and lack of oversight can put vulnerable young people at risk, especially when celebrities engage with minors online. The delayed release of the autopsy adds to a pattern of institutions protecting high-profile figures instead of prioritizing victims and families. There needs to be stronger accountability for both the justice system and the platforms that enable dangerous connections.
In the Center
While the investigation appears to have followed standard protocol in withholding the autopsy until charges were filed, the extended delay raises legitimate concerns about transparency. The case underscores the importance of balancing thorough law enforcement work with the public's right to information, especially when a minor is involved and families are seeking closure.
On the Right
The focus should remain on the facts of the crime and due process. The singer has been charged, and the legal system is now moving forward. While the delay in releasing the autopsy may be frustrating, it's not uncommon when evidence could impact an active investigation. Jumping to conclusions or blaming institutions before all facts are out risks undermining justice.
Full coverage
What you should know
A Los Angeles County medical examiner has confirmed that 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez died from multiple stab wounds after her body was discovered in the car of rising R&B artist D4vd. The findings, released this week, come months after her death but only after D4vd-whose legal name is David Burke-was formally charged with murder.
According to the autopsy report, the injuries were described as penetrating wounds with smooth edges, concentrated on the torso. While the examination was completed earlier, officials were prevented from making the results public until after charges were filed. The Los Angeles County Coroner's Office cited an ongoing investigation as the reason for the delay, a move that has since drawn criticism from community advocates and legal experts.
Burke was arrested and charged on Monday, following what law enforcement sources describe as a buildup of forensic and digital evidence. Investigators reportedly found surveillance footage, phone data, and forensic traces linking him to the crime scene and timeline. The car, parked outside an apartment complex in the San Fernando Valley, became central to the case after neighbors reported a strong odor and called police.
The case has stirred intense public reaction, especially among young fans of D4vd, whose music gained popularity on platforms like TikTok. Celeste, a student from Van Nuys, was reported missing by her family before her body was found. Friends and relatives have since shared tributes online, calling for justice and greater protection for minors interacting with public figures online.
Advocacy groups are now questioning why it took so long to release the cause of death, arguing that transparency could have helped prevent misinformation and eased the family's anguish. Some legal analysts say while investigative delays are not uncommon, withholding medical findings for months without clear communication can erode public trust.
Burke remains in custody without bail as the case moves toward preliminary hearings. His attorney has not yet commented on the autopsy findings but previously stated that Burke would cooperate fully with authorities. The prosecution is expected to present additional evidence in the coming weeks.
This case has become more than a criminal proceeding-it's also a moment of reckoning about celebrity access to young fans, digital boundaries, and how institutions handle sensitive cases involving minors. As the legal process unfolds, many are watching closely, not just for justice, but for accountability on all sides.
About this author
Zwely News Staff compiles multi-source reporting into concise, viewpoint-aware coverage for readers who want context without noise.
Source Notes
Girl, 14, found in singer D4vd's car died of 'multiple injuries'
The medical examiner said the 14-year-old's cause of death was determined months ago but was blocked from release.
Celeste Rivas Died of Multiple Stab Wounds, Autopsy Finds
Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the 14-year-old girl allegedly killed by the singer D4vd, died of multiple stab wounds, according to an autopsy report released on Wednesday. The singer, whose legal name is David Burke, was charged on Monday with m...
Celeste Rivas Died of Two ‘Penetrating Injuries’ With ‘Smooth Edges’ on Torso
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office finally revealed Rivas' autopsy report after the singer D4vd was charged in her murder
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