Popular alternative musical artist David Anthony Burke, also known as d4vd, has canceled his world tour after an impounded vehicle in his name was found containing the remains of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a 15-year-old girl who had been reported a missing runaway for over a year. The investigation for Celeste Rivas continues as authorities work to determine the circumstances of her death.
Despite incriminating indications, there is no confirmation from authorities that d4vd is the perpetrator. However, d4vd is 20 years old, which would make any relation to Celeste Rivas, inappropriate. While no charges have been made, d4vd’s representative has stated that he is “fully cooperating with authorities.” Just days after the police raided his home on Sep. 17, movers were spotted loading his belongings out of his four-million dollar Hollywood Hills home.
Forensic examination revealed that she had died at age 14, just one day before her 15th birthday, prompting authorities to launch a homicide investigation. Investigators discovered the vehicle in question less than a mile from his residence. Just days after police raided his home on Sep. 17, movers were spotted loading his belongings out of his $4 million dollar Hollywood Hills home.
An examination of the circumstances surrounding Celeste’s disappearance reveals several concerning connections to the musician. Her parents filed a missing person report in April 2024 when she was 13 years old. According to her mother’s statements prior to the disappearance, Celeste had been dating a man with the same name.
Another notable connection involves matching tattoos: both Celeste and d4vd possess identical tattoos on their right index fingers reading “Shhh…”
Further analysis of d4vd’s artistic productions proves additional parallels, though these remain unconfirmed suspicions. His music videos feature an actress bearing a striking resemblance to Celeste. The popular song “Romantic Homicide” was released specifically on Celeste’s birthday and his live performances included the unsettling prop of a casket on stage. In “One More Dance,” he appears in blood-stained clothing while dragging what appears to be his own corpse into a car trunk. Similarly, the animated video for “Rehab” depicts graphic violence against a young female character, specifically showing her arm being torn off. Considered collectively, these elements have led his fanbase to question whether his lyrics and imagery were simply dark artistic themes or a manifesto.
The case quickly gained significant attention online, with numerous individuals undertaking their own research efforts while demanding transparency and answers from authorities. However, distinguishing between verified information and unsubstantiated allegations has become confusing. While people on the internet have uncovered possible evidence—such as a leaked song on d4vd’s Soundcloud with suggestive lyrics and mentions Celeste multiple times, titled “Celeste_Demo unfin-”. Other circulating claims remain unverified, and in some instances, problematic in nature.
People have released alleged photos of the two in public together. Another photo allegedly taken not far from Celeste’s home, depicts d4vd “paying people off because he was into younger girls.” Messages from his Discord server in 2022 show him exchanging conversation with her. On Sep. 25, an alleged “mutual friend” posted a lengthy statement defending d4vd, claiming that his car had been stolen and that he was being framed. The post suggested that a different, older individual named Celeste Herrara could be responsible for the incident, though the shared first name creates potential confusion in identifying which Celeste is being referenced.
Out of respect and privacy for Celeste Rivas, and her family, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell stated, “We have a lot of resources dedicated to bringing it to a conclusion. But to go beyond what’s already been made public would be inappropriate.” As the case develops, officials have urged the public to allow law enforcement to conduct their work thoroughly rather than relying on unverified online speculation. For now, the focus remains on bringing closure to Celeste’s family and determining the truth behind her tragic death.
