New details have been released in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered last year.
According to a report issued yesterday by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the teen died from “multiple penetrating injuries caused by object(s),” and her death was ruled a homicide.
The findings describe two primary wounds, including one to her abdomen that injured her liver and another to her chest. Investigators also noted that her body was found in an “advanced state of decomposition.” Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo addressed the delay in releasing the report.
“After several months, I am grateful this information can now be released, not only to the public, but also to the grieving family enduring loss,” Ukpo said. “It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter.”
The report also states that parts of Celeste’s remains showed signs of mutilation and that foreign material was found embedded in the cut areas.
Celeste’s family responded through their attorney after the findings were made public.
“The Rivas Hernandez family is absolutely devastated by the findings contained in the Medical Examiner’s Report involving the horrible and gruesome death of their beloved daughter,” the statement read. “These findings have caused profound emotional pain for the family.”
The report does not identify a suspect.
Musician D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, has been charged in connection with the case and has pleaded not guilty. He remains in custody as proceedings continue.