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D4vd has been under fire after the dismembered body of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas was found in a Tesla that's registered to him, and the murderous alias from one of his music videos hasn't necessarily helped his defense.
As the investigation into Rivas' death continues, fans and sleuths have been referring to d4vd's music for clues into his state of mind before the teenager's passing. One song in particular that continues to draw ire from critics is his 2022 hit "Romantic Homicide." The music video shows d4vd standing in front of a bed where a young girl lies dead while covered in blood.
"In the back of my mind, I killed you/And I didn't even regret it," d4vd croons. "I can't believe I said it/But it's true/I hate you."
The ominous track was released in July 2022 as part of his first EP, Petals To Thorns. He released the project a few months before he was signed to Darkroom and Interscope Records for $3 million. He was only 17 at the time. In 2023, d4vd took to X and explained the meaning behind his blindfolded character in the "Romantic Homicide" video. He named his character "Itami," which means "pain" in Japanese. Complex pointed out that d4vd revealed his alter ego stemmed from a Manga he wanted to release.
"The story of the Manga went like... I was a detective and there was an evil version of myself that would come out at random moments," he explained. "Kinda like Fight Club with Tyler Durden. He would commit the crimes that I would have to solve afterwards as a detective. So as the detective, I’d be solving murders that I’m committing myself."
D4vd spoke on his creepy alter ego just four months before Celeste Rivas was found dead in his Tesla. The car had been towed to an impound lot in Hollywood days after it was found abandoned in front of the home d4vd and his manager, Josh Marshall, were staying. Investigators recently executed a search warrant and looked for blood based on the theory that Rivas could've been murdered inside the house.
The singer and Rivas have been connected in several ways since the investigation began. Rivas' mother confirmed the body was her daughter after she was identified by a tattoo on her right index finger. Her mom also said that Rivas had been missing since April 2024 and was dating a guy named David. The 20-year-old singer, born David Anthony Burke, also had the same tattoo in the same location. In addition, the two were spotted in photos and videos together. D4vd was also seen in a photo talking with a kid just six minutes away from Rivas' family home. Rivas' teacher also said that Rivas once ran away to Hollywood to be with d4vd, but was later returned to her hometown of Lake Elsinore.
It's important to note that police have not formally identified d4vd as a suspect. He's been cooperating with the authorities as the investigation continues. However, his label has canceled the rest of his world tour and postponed the promotion of his deluxe album.