Celeste Rivas Hernandez Obituary, Death; Authorities in Los Angeles, California have announced a major development in the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a 14-year-old girl whose body was discovered inside a vehicle in 2025.
Detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department Robbery-Homicide Division confirmed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the case. The arrest took place on April 16, 2026, at a residence in Los Angeles.
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The suspect, identified as David Anthony Burke, 21, is currently being held without bail as the case moves toward formal review by prosecutors.
The case dates back to September 8, 2025, when authorities responded to reports of a foul odor coming from a Tesla Model Y that had been left parked for several days in the Hollywood Hills area. Upon investigation, officers discovered the body of Celeste inside the trunk of the vehicle. Officials later confirmed the Tesla SUV was registered to Burke.
Investigators have stated that Burke had previously been identified as a person of interest, with evidence suggesting he had a prior connection to the victim. Detectives spent months working to piece together the timeline leading up to her death.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on April 20, 2026, where prosecutors will review the evidence and determine whether formal charges will be filed.
The arrest marks a significant step forward in a case that has remained under active investigation for months. Authorities say additional details are expected following the district attorney’s review.