Celeste Rivas Found Partially Frozen in D4vd’s Tesla; Cause of Death Likely Undetermined
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According to sources cited by TMZ, investigators now believe that Celeste Rivas’s body was partially frozen when it was discovered — a development that may prevent the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner from determining an official cause of death. TMZ
Disturbing Condition at Discovery
Law enforcement contacts tell TMZ that when the body was recovered, it was in “horrendous condition.” TMZ The report states that the torso was intact, but the limbs had been removed — cut into multiple pieces. TMZ According to the same sources, the remains were found in a plastic bag in the front trunk (or “frunk”) of a Tesla registered to the singer D4vd. TMZ+2TMZ+2
Investigators say the “partially frozen” body was in the process of thawing while sitting in that trunk. TMZ
Cause of Death May Be Undetermined
Because of the advanced state of decomposition, and given the freezing and thawing, the Medical Examiner is reportedly struggling to establish a definitive cause or manner of death. TMZ Sources tell TMZ the case will likely be classified as “undetermined.” TMZ
Despite this uncertainty, LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division is treating Rivas’s death as an apparent homicide and believes they may still proceed with a case, even if the official cause of death remains unclear. TMZ
Investigation and Suspects
Investigators are reportedly viewing D4vd (real name David Anthony Burke) as a suspect in the case. TMZ+1 TMZ sources also allege a second individual may have been involved in the dismemberment. TMZ
Earlier reporting confirms that Rivas was identified by the Medical Examiner’s office, and her family has since claimed her remains. TMZ A private funeral was later held as part of her memorial. TMZ+1
Additional Complications
- **Timeline **: According to the LAPD, the Tesla had been parked for several weeks before being towed. TMZ
- Deferred Autopsy: The medical examiner deferred a final ruling pending further testing, which can take months. NME
- Runaway History: Rivas is said to have run away from home multiple times, reportedly due to a troubled family situation. TMZ
