Celeste Rivas' 'frozen' remains in D4vd’s car leave investigators unable to confirm cause of death

The investigation into the death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas continues as authorities examine the condition of her remains, which were discovered in the boot of singer D4vd’s abandoned Tesla in the Hollywood Hills.

Officials report that her body had been dismembered, partially frozen and in the process of thawing when located, complicating efforts by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner to determine an exact cause of death.

Sources indicated that the cause of death may ultimately be recorded as undetermined due to the state of the remains.

The singer, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, is being treated as a potential suspect, but no arrests have been made. Investigators are also examining the role of a second individual whose presence was linked to the same location and timeframe through mobile and social media data, according to comments made on a podcast by Mark Geragos.

Rivas' remains were found on September 8 after a staff member at a tow yard reported a strong odour coming from the vehicle. The car had been ticketed roughly two weeks earlier, though the precise length of time it was left unattended is still being investigated.

Police believe the teenager, who had a history of running away and was reported missing in early 2024, may have died in the spring.

Detectives are examining whether her death resulted from foul play or a possible overdose. Officers are also assessing the involvement of Burke and any associates, though authorities say the singer has not cooperated with the investigation.

Connections between the teen and D4vd emerged through posts in his Discord server and references in unreleased music. Her mother also reported that Rivas had been seeing someone named David. The singer's rented Hollywood Hills home is now being prepared to return to the market.