Records concerning the death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose body was discovered in the car of singer D4vd, have been sealed from public access, officials confirmed.
The Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office disclosed that a court order had placed a security hold on the case, preventing the release or publication of any information about Rivas Hernandez’s death.
According to police, they sought the hold so investigators could “receive information from the Medical Examiner before the public”.
Chief Medical Examiner Dr Odey Ukpo criticised the process, noting that security holds are “virtually unheard of in other counties” and “has not been proven to improve outcomes in the legal system”.
“We are dedicated to serving our community with full transparency; however, the law precludes us from doing so while the court order remains in this case,” Dr Ukpo added.
Police found Rivas Hernandez’s remains inside the boot of an impounded Tesla on 8 September after responding to reports of a foul odour at a tow yard in Hollywood.
She had been missing since April 2024, according to a flyer cited by CBS, the BBC’s US partner.
The vehicle, registered to the 20-year-old artist, had been towed five days earlier after being left abandoned in the Hollywood Hills.
D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, was on tour at the time and has made no public statement, though his team has said he is cooperating with investigators.
The LAPD’s robbery-homicide division is handling the case, and no arrests have been made.
The medical examiner previously reported that her body was “severely decomposed” when recovered, prompting a deferred ruling on the cause of death.
She was found in a bag wearing a tube top, small-size black leggings, and jewellery including a yellow metal stud earring and a chain bracelet.
A tattoo on her index finger reading “Shhh…” closely resembled one on the singer’s own finger. Investigators said the level of decomposition suggested she had been dead “for several weeks”.
Rivas Hernandez lived roughly 75 miles from where the Tesla was found and had a history of repeatedly running away from home.
Neighbours told the Los Angeles Times they recognised her as a familiar face who often visited a local corner store to buy candy and soda.
Her family described her as a cherished daughter, sister, cousin, and friend, saying they were “heartbroken and devastated by this tragic loss”. A crowdfunding campaign helped cover funeral expenses, and she was laid to rest in October.
The unfolding case has severely impacted the rising musician’s career. His world tour was abruptly cancelled, and Sony Music Publishing reportedly halted the rollout of his second album.
Police later raided the Hollywood Hills mansion where he was staying, near the location where the Tesla had been collected.
Brands including Hollister and Crocs cut ties with him, and singer Kali Uchis removed their collaboration Crashing from her platforms.
