LOS ANGELES, CA- David Burke, better known as d4vd, has spent the past few years building a reputation as one of alternative pop’s brightest young artists. His breakout single Romantic Homicide—a brooding track that captured alienation, heartbreak, and adolescent violence—helped him earn millions of streams and a coveted spot on festival stages worldwide.
But in September 2025, the Houston-born singer found his name thrust into headlines of a very different sort: not as a rising star, but as the registered owner of a Tesla where human remains were discovered.
The Hollywood Tow Yard Discovery
On September 8, 2025, workers at Hollywood Tow contacted police after detecting a foul odor from an impounded Tesla. When LAPD officers pried open the front trunk, they uncovered a bag containing decomposed human remains. The car, authorities confirmed, was registered to d4vd.
The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division took over the case. Early reports noted the remains were badly decomposed, with the cause of death listed as “deferred” pending investigation.
The Victim: Celeste Rivas
On September 17, officials confirmed the remains belonged to 15-year-old Celeste Rivas, a Lake Elsinore resident who had been reported missing in 2024 at age 13. Despite appeals at the time, her disappearance had grown cold. Her discovery in d4vd’s car reopened the case in chilling fashion.
The Medical Examiner has not determined cause or manner of death. No suspects have been identified, and no arrests have been made.
The Artist’s Camp Responds
A spokesperson for d4vd stated he is cooperating fully with the investigation. Touring plans shifted under scrutiny. At least one show was canceled, though other dates remained live on his schedule, creating uncertainty for fans who had purchased tickets.
Public Reaction: Lyrics, Persona, and Projection
The title of d4vd’s most famous song, Romantic Homicide, has become an eerie talking point. Fans and critics alike have drawn lines between his dark lyrics and the grim discovery.
But history reminds us that lyrics are not literal. Johnny Cash once sang about killing a man in Reno “just to watch him die,” without such an act occurring in reality. Artistic personas often trade in violent imagery without being evidence of criminality. The danger lies in conflating art with life…. a leap that audiences, especially in the digital rumor age, are quick to make.
Unverified Online Speculation
On X (formerly Twitter), speculation has exploded. Users have attempted to tie tattoos, lyrics, and past interviews to the case, while others allege possible online connections between Rivas and the artist.
⚠️ Important Note: The material below is included solely to illustrate the type of online conversation surrounding this case. We do not endorse, confirm, or adopt any of these claims. None of the social media posts, alleged lyrics, or suggested connections have been verified by law enforcement, journalists, or independent reporting. They remain allegations and speculation.
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Some posts circulated images and captions that users claimed showed Rivas before her disappearance. These posts remain unverified.
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Other users attempted to link tattoos and personal photos to the case. These claims have not been confirmed by authorities.
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TMZ reported that a leaked demo track allegedly referenced the name “Celeste.” The authenticity of the track and its lyrics has not been confirmed.
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Some fans have revisited lines from Romantic Homicide, interpreting them through the lens of the case. These interpretations remain speculative.
The following material is included solely to illustrate the type of conversation taking place online. We do not endorse, confirm, or adopt any of these claims. None of the social media posts, alleged lyrics, or suggested connections have been verified by law enforcement, journalists, or independent reporting. They are presented only for perspective on the online reaction surrounding this case.
Yahoo News also reports the same description: “She was last seen wearing gray pants, a black sweater, Hello Kitty sandals and a hat.”
If that is indeed Celeste in the picture, and that image is dated correctly, on December 13, 2023, she would have been about 13 years old, depending on her exact birthdate (which has not been published).
Some users online have circulated posts they claim are connected, but these claims are unverified and not confirmed by any authority.
Some users online have pointed to existing lyrics from his released music, interpreting them in light of the case. These interpretations remain speculative.
Where Things Stand
Notwithstanding the social media chatter, as of this writing, here are the only verified facts:
- The body of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas was found in an impounded Tesla registered to d4vd.
- The cause of death is pending.
- Authorities have not announced any suspects or arrests.
- d4vd’s camp says he is cooperating with investigators.
Everything else remains alleged. The line between speculation and fact will only be clarified through ongoing investigation and official findings.
D4vd Under Investigation After Human Remains Found in Tesla: What We Know vs. Online Speculation
