On Sept. 8, the body of Celeste Rivas was found in the front trunk of David Burke’s former Tesla while the singer was on tour. Burke, more widely known by his stage name D4vd, has faced wide public scrutiny in light of the recent discovery. Police claim that while the Tesla bore a Texas license plate, it was found abandoned in the Hollywood Hills. Burke was listed as the previous owner, authorities said.
Following the finding of the body, authorities acquired a warrant, then proceeded to raid the young star’s house on Sept. 18. Despite the connection, no sufficient evidence has appeared to convict Burke so far. Yet, many have come forward about the history between Burke and Rivas online.
At the time of Rivas’ reported disappearance, she was only 14 years old. After finding her body, she was dated at the time of her death, being 15 years old. Screenshots emerged online of messages from a private Discord server, Burke communicating with her on the platform since she was eleven, engaging in an inappropriate online-to-in-person relationship.
A tattoo was found on the finger of Rivas’ body, which matched an identical tattoo found on Burke’s finger. TMZ reported that Rivas’ mother said she was concerned by the news about David’s connection to the Tesla being registered under Burke’s name, remarking that she was worried if it was the same David that she was dating.
To add further fuel to the fire, one of Rivas’ former teachers from Lakeland Village High brought up how Rivas had mentioned to them that she met Burke over social media.
More speculation has occurred online, with many looking to Burke’s song “Romantic Homicide,” which contains alarming lyrics.
“In the back of my mind, I killed you And I didn’t even regret it. I can’t believe I said it But it’s true.” Many suggest a connection to Rivas’ death; however, no evidence has confirmed the speculation.
While the twenty-year-old Queens native has yet to face any real charges and is even cooperating with LAPD, the investigation continues, with the singer canceling the rest of his tour in Europe and Australia.
