The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner released the autopsy report on 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, ruling her death a homicide caused by multiple penetrating injuries. The findings describe severe wounds and decomposition after her body was found in rapper D4vd's Tesla. D4vd, arrested last week and charged with murder and child sexual abuse, has pleaded not guilty as her family demands justice.
The autopsy, completed on December 9, 2025, but delayed by a LAPD security hold until April 22, 2026, confirms homicide by multiple penetrating injuries from sharp objects. Pathologist Dr. Odey Ukpo documented two torso stab wounds: one in the upper abdomen (0.75 inches long, 1.5 inches deep) piercing the liver, and another in the left chest (0.56 inches long, 2 inches deep) damaging ribs. Additional injuries included missing left ring and pinky fingers, abrasions on the right hand, and a toxicology screen positive for benzodiazepines, methamphetamine, and MDMA (some results presumptive). The body, found decomposed in black bags in the trunk of D4vd's abandoned Tesla after over four months (late April to early September 2025), was partially skeletonized with the left eye absent.
Celeste's parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, expressed devastation over the 'horrible and gruesome' details, stating profound emotional pain and opting to skip D4vd's April 23 hearing. They remembered her as a 'beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance,' with cherished Friday movie nights, and called for justice while thanking LAPD, the DA's office, and supporters in Lake Elsinore.
D4vd (David Burke), arrested April 18 in a SWAT operation and charged April 21 with first-degree murder (with special circumstances: lying in wait, financial gain, witness tampering), lewd acts on a child under 14, and mutilation of remains, pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors allege he stabbed her after she threatened to expose their relationship, then dismembered and stored the body. He is held without bail at Twin Towers jail. His defense seeks a prompt preliminary hearing. Dr. Ukpo criticized the delay, emphasizing transparency for public safety.
