The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the restriction was enacted following a court directive initiated at the request of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The department said the hold was necessary to ensure investigators receive information from the medical examiner before it becomes publicly accessible.
However, Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo noted that such security holds are rare in other jurisdictions and expressed concern about reduced transparency. “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,” he said.
Details of the Discovery
Police found Rivas Hernandez’s remains on 8 September in the trunk of an impounded Tesla at a Hollywood tow yard after reports of a foul odour. The car had been abandoned in the Hollywood Hills and towed five days earlier.
Rivas Hernandez, a resident of Lake Elsinore, California, had been missing since April 2024, according to a CBS-cited missing person flyer.
A medical examiner’s initial statement described the body as “severely decomposed,” noting she had likely been dead for several weeks. Her remains were found inside a bag and she was wearing a tube top, black leggings, and jewelry, including a yellow metal bracelet and stud earring. She also had a tattoo reading “Shhh…” on her index finger—similar to one on the singer’s finger—though investigators have not indicated any conclusions about its significance.
Investigation Ongoing, No Arrests Made
The LAPD confirmed the case is being handled by its robbery-homicide division, which frequently oversees complex investigations. No suspects have been named and no arrests have been made.
D4vd—real name David Anthony Burke, 20—was on tour at the time of the discovery. While he has not commented publicly, his representatives have said he is cooperating with law enforcement.
Impact on the Teen’s Family and the Artist’s Career
Community members from Lake Elsinore recalled Rivas Hernandez as a familiar face in the neighbourhood, describing her as a first-generation daughter of Salvadoran immigrants who often visited a local corner store. Her family has stated they are “heartbroken and devastated,” and held a funeral for her in October after raising funds online.
The circumstances surrounding the case have also disrupted D4vd’s career. His world tour was cancelled days after the discovery, and reports indicate that Sony Music Publishing suspended promotional activities for his upcoming album. Police later searched a Hollywood Hills residence connected to him.
Major brands, including Hollister and Crocs, have dropped the artist from marketing campaigns, and singer Kali Uchis removed their collaboration “Crashing” from streaming platforms.
Case Remains Under Seal
With the security order still in effect, the medical examiner cannot release findings or cause-of-death details until the court lifts the restriction. The investigation remains active as police continue gathering evidence.