The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has determined that Celeste Rivas Hernandez died from multiple penetrating injuries, and her death has been officially ruled a homicide.

Homicide Ruling and Family Grief

This determination was reached in December but remained sealed under a court order requested by the Los Angeles Police Department until recently. The delay in releasing this information caused significant pain and frustration for the Hernandez family, who have been seeking answers about their daughter’s death.

Chief Medical Examiner Odey Ukpo expressed his sympathy to the family, stating his gratitude that the information could finally be shared. He acknowledged the unimaginable hardship they faced while awaiting clarity on the circumstances surrounding Celeste’s death.

Charges Against D4vd

The release of the medical examiner’s report follows the recent charging of David Brandon Rodriguez, known professionally as D4vd, with first-degree murder in connection with Rivas Hernandez’s death. Rodriguez pleaded not guilty through his legal counsel on Monday.

Defense Claims Innocence

D4vd’s defense team maintains his innocence, asserting that evidence will demonstrate he was not responsible for the 14-year-old girl’s death. The specifics of the evidence the defense intends to present have not yet been publicly disclosed.

Ongoing Investigation

The case has garnered significant media attention due to the involvement of a rising musical artist and the tragic circumstances surrounding the young victim. Law enforcement has been meticulously investigating the events leading up to Celeste’s death.

The court order preventing the release of the medical examiner’s findings was reportedly put in place to avoid compromising the police investigation. The details surrounding Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s death remain largely confidential as the legal process unfolds.

Nature of Injuries

The finding of multiple penetrating injuries indicates a violent encounter. The exact nature of those injuries and the sequence of events remain under investigation and will be central to the prosecution’s case. The defense is expected to challenge the prosecution’s narrative.

The Hernandez family is now grappling with the confirmed homicide ruling, seeking justice for Celeste and hoping for a thorough and impartial legal process. The Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.