A Teenage Girl’s Death in a Tesla Sparks Controversy Over Cause of Death
Law enforcement officials are still trying to determine the cause and manner of death of a 15-year-old girl whose body was discovered in the trunk of a Tesla registered to singer D4vd earlier this month. The vehicle, which had been towed from a Los Angeles street two days prior, was found abandoned on September 8, prompting authorities to investigate its contents.
The body, identified as Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a resident of Lake Elsinore, California, was found in the front trunk of the Tesla on September 8, a day after it had been impounded. Police sources confirmed that the teen had gone missing last year, and investigators have since confirmed her death. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has not yet determined the cause or method of her death, leaving the case unresolved.
Police emphasize that the investigation is ongoing, with the Robbery-Homicide Division (RHD) examining every aspect of the case. Authorities have stated that the body may have been dead for several weeks before discovery, and the medical examiner has not yet confirmed the cause of death. "As such, it remains unclear whether there is any criminal culpability beyond the concealment of her body," said police. "RHD is thoroughly examining every detail to uncover the truth and seek justice for Celeste Rivas Hernandez and her family."
A copy of the death certificate obtained by ABC News shows that the manner of death is pending investigation, while the cause of death is listed as "deferred." According to the document, the body was found a day after her 15th birthday, and she was not pregnant or in the last year of any relationship. Investigators are relying on lab tests and toxicology reports to determine how she died, though the case remains classified as a death investigation rather than a homicide.
No additional details have been released at this time, according to police. "We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we continue this investigation," the department stated. Officers responded to an impound lot in Hollywood on September 8 for a foul odor, and authorities later found a decomposed body in the Tesla’s front trunk.
D4vd, who gained fame on TikTok with 3.8 million followers, had been on his "Withered" world tour when the body was discovered. The last few shows, including in San Francisco and Los Angeles, were canceled. Additionally, the European leg of the tour and the release of his debut album’s deluxe edition have also been postponed. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the case, the public remains eager to learn more about the circumstances of Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s death.
