Prosecutors Highlight Air Fresheners Found in Tesla Holding Decomposing Body
During a preliminary hearing, prosecutors presented photos showing more than ten air fresheners inside a Tesla where the remains of Celeste Rivas were discovered, and officials discussed the case's financial and legal aspects.
Prosecutors disclosed that a Tesla belonging to musician D4vd contained at least 11 air fresheners scattered throughout the vehicle when the decomposing remains of Celeste Rivas were found in two bags. LAPD criminalist Chelsea Murillo testified that the air fresheners were located in the center console, rear seats and front trunk, where she noted a strong odor during her inspection on Sept. 9, the day after the body was discovered.
The presence of the air fresheners was suggested as a factor that may have delayed detection of the odor despite high summer temperatures. Court officials also presented graphic crime-scene photographs and an LAPD investigator reported that a tattoo resembling Rivas' name was observed on D4vd's finger during booking.
Interscope Records executives testified that D4vd remained under contract for eight months after the alleged killing, receiving more than $5.1 million from the label and affiliated companies between 2022 and 2025, before the agreement was terminated in December 2025. Additional testimony estimated D4vd's earnings at about $12 million from 2023 to 2025.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman indicated that the death penalty remains a possible outcome in the case.