LAKE ELSINORE, Calif. – Just down the road from Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s house is the high school she would have attended, where a slew of college flags show the schools chosen by students after they left sleepy Lake Elsinore in Southern California.
Tragically, Celeste did not live long enough to study there. She was killed before her 15th birthday, and a recent autopsy revealed that she still had braces when she died.
Her brief life unfolded in this unassuming community of over 70,000 residents, centered around a sprawling lake known for its lively water sports scene.
Almost eight months have passed since her decomposed and dismembered body was discovered in the trunk of a Tesla registered to the singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke. He has been charged with first-degree murder and other offenses related to her death and their relationship, to which he pleaded not guilty this week.
Understanding Celeste’s Story
Details surrounding Celeste’s relationship with Burke remain unclear. She grew up approximately 80 miles from the Hollywood Hills rental home where Burke lived and where his car was found abandoned with her body inside.
Their lives contrasted immensely. The street where Rivas Hernandez grew up features chain-link fences and small front yards, while Burke’s neighborhood is lined with security gates and privacy hedges among palm trees.
Celeste’s home is adorned with a white picket fence, plants, and flowers, symbolizing a loving environment. Two rosary beads hang on the front door, and a painted rock nearby reads “You Matter.”
The town’s demographic is diverse, with more than half of its residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino, according to the latest census. The streets are a mix of fast food chains and local businesses, creating a familiar atmosphere.
Community Response and Memorial
Many neighbors and residents in Lake Elsinore reported not knowing the family or Celeste herself, as the family tended to keep to themselves. Even a neighbor who created a memorial in her honor, Kayleigh Cortez, admitted she did not know her personally.
Celeste was reported missing in 2024 as a 13-year-old seventh grader. Authorities initially believed she had run away, and residents recall seeing flyers with her photo around town during that time.
“I didn’t know her personally, but she was a girl with a normal life. She had friends at school,” said Elizabeth Davalos, a resident of Lake Elsinore, reflecting on Celeste’s life.
In a statement released through their attorney, Celeste’s parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, described her as “a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance.” They expressed their deep love for her and their desire for justice, saying, “Every Friday night was movie night, and we spent wonderful times together.”
A Supportive Community
Local business owner Katie Favreau remarked on the close-knit nature of the community, stating that “If somebody is in need in this town, the whole town will rally.” Her shop is located near where Celeste grew up, yet she did not know her family.
The community continues to support Celeste’s family while respecting their privacy. Conversations about the tragic events have become “sporadic,” according to Favreau.
The memorial for Celeste shows signs of recent visitors, with fresh flowers mingling with older ones. A sign reading “Justice for Celeste Rivas” features handwritten notes from friends and mourners, many of which include Bible verses or messages wishing her peace.
“God looked around his garden. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest,” reads one touching note. “God’s garden is beautiful, he always takes the best.”
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Associated Press journalists Leslie Ambriz and Damian Dovarganes in Lake Elsinore, California, and Andrew Dalton in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
