D4vd arrested in slaying of California teen Celeste Rivas

The 24-year-old musician became a suspect in the November 2025 murder case.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:26am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single handcuff, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the arrest and investigation of a high-profile criminal case.The arrest of a rising music star in a high-profile murder case exposes the dark underbelly of fame and the challenges of investigating crimes involving public figures.Houston Today

A 24-year-old musician named D4vd has been arrested and charged in the slaying of 17-year-old Celeste Rivas, whose body was discovered in a remote area of California in November 2025. Authorities say D4vd, whose real name is David Flores, became a suspect in the case several months after Rivas' death.

Why it matters

The high-profile murder case has garnered significant media attention, both for the young victim's tragic death and the suspect's status as a rising music artist. The arrest raises questions about the music industry's role in fostering potential violence and the challenges of investigating crimes involving public figures.

The details

According to police, D4vd allegedly lured Rivas to a remote location, where he then killed her. Authorities have not released details on the cause of death or a potential motive. D4vd, who has been charged with first-degree murder, was taken into custody without incident.

  • Celeste Rivas' body was discovered in November 2025.
  • D4vd became a suspect several months after Rivas' death.
  • D4vd was arrested and charged in April 2026.

The players

D4vd

A 24-year-old musician whose real name is David Flores, and who has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Celeste Rivas.

Celeste Rivas

A 17-year-old California resident who was the victim in the murder case.

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What they’re saying

“We are devastated by the loss of Celeste and will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.”

— Celeste Rivas' family

“This is a tragic situation, and we are deeply saddened by the events. We will reserve further comment until the legal process has run its course.”

— D4vd's record label

What’s next

D4vd is scheduled to appear in court next week for his arraignment, where he will enter a plea. Prosecutors have indicated they will seek the maximum sentence if he is convicted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex intersection of the music industry, celebrity culture, and the criminal justice system, raising difficult questions about accountability, mental health, and the challenges of investigating high-profile crimes.