The true crime story surrounding teenage runaway Celeste Rivas Hernandez and her connection to rising R&B artist D4VD continues to interest viewers. Three weeks ago, police discovered her body inside the trunk of his impounded Tesla. Since then, questions about how she died and how the investigation unfolds sees folks slamming the investigation.
Officials Make Some Odd Statements
On her Monday night segment of Banfield on News Nation, Ashleigh Banfield revisited the case and questioned officials on their statements. First, she said:
It’s been three weeks to the day since the body of a teenage runaway was found in the trunk of an impounded car owned by a prominent young singer who happened to be her boyfriend. It has been assumed [and] officially confirmed by police that the body had been in that trunk for several weeks before that.
However, she seemed perplexed because now, the stance seems to be that “until and unless they determine how Celeste Rivas Hernandez actually died, they will not know whether she’s a homicide victim or an accident victim or maybe even took her own life.”
She pointed out that while the Los Angeles police chief recently described the case as “a homicide investigation, detectives now appear less certain.” However, an LAPD captain said in a statement, “It remains unclear whether there is any criminal culpability beyond the concealment of her body.”
Angry Folks Slam The Investigation
The comment only angered and frustrated true crime viewers. Critics were quick to slam the authorities. One viewer fumed, “That’s outrageous, the FBI should take over this investigation and prosecution. LAPD is corrupt and sabotaging this case intentionally.”
Meanwhile, another one questioned how Celeste could have placed herself in the trunk without anyone noticing, writing, “Why didn’t the ticket guy notice any odor the first time he put a ticket?” Others dismissed the department’s tone entirely, saying, “Justice for Celeste.”
Additionally, Banfield reminded her audience that Celeste’s remains are no longer with the medical examiner. They were released to her family last week, which means investigators now rely almost entirely on reports and lab results.
Toxicology findings are still pending, and private investigator Steve Fischer discussed how if the police arrest anyone for concealment, it’s just a minor misdemeanor in California.
Frustration With The Lack Of Progress
Adding to the mystery, the singer himself vanished from public view. Police raided his home and he canceled his tour almost immediately after the body was found. However, officials stressed that he is not a suspect at this time.
Forensic experts told Banfield that the condition of the body complicates the case. Ashleigh Banfield also noted that digital data from the Tesla could prove vital, as the car continuously logs activity from doors, trunks, and even cameras.
For now, true crime watchers remain convinced something is being overlooked. Or, even hidden. Every new update seems to widen the gap between what authorities admit and what the public suspects. And while LAPD insists it’s too soon to draw conclusions, viewers seem determined that justice for Celeste Hernandez must be given top priority.
What do you think about the way investigators are handling this case? Do you agree that it should be taken over by the FBI? Let us know in the comments below, and check back here often for more true crime news and updates.