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A Decomposing Body Found in a Tesla Linked to Artist D4vd Sparks Death Investigation

  • Sep 9
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 11

9 September 2025

A dead body was found inside the trunk of a Tesla reportedly registered to singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke. Getty Images for Coachella
A dead body was found inside the trunk of a Tesla reportedly registered to singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke. Getty Images for Coachella

In Hollywood, a Tesla tied to the young artist known as D4vd became the center of a grim mystery when workers at a Los Angeles impound lot detected a foul odor that led authorities to a shocking discovery. On September 8, 2025, police found human remains sealed in a bag in the front trunk of the impounded vehicle. The car, registered in Texas to David Anthony Burke, aged 20, known professionally as D4vd, had been at the lot for days before the remains were discovered. The situation has prompted a full homicide investigation by LAPD, though Burke is not currently accused of any wrongdoing.


Authorities were alerted at around 12:30 p.m. when the impound lot staff reported a strong, unpleasant smell coming from the Tesla. Officers responding to the 1000 block of North Mansfield Avenue arrived to find the car had been at the property for a couple of days. The body was found in a deteriorated state. According to LAPD sources the remains were badly decomposed and inside a sealed bag. The Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the victim is a woman but her age, ethnicity, and identity are not yet known. Investigation is in early stages, with the cause and manner of death still pending autopsy results.


The vehicle had been impounded after being abandoned in Hollywood Hills. It bears Texas license plates and is legally registered to Burke. There is no indication so far that the car was reported stolen. D4vd, on tour at the time, has released no detailed public statement beyond confirming cooperation via representatives. He remains active in his career, with scheduled performances still marked in his “Withered” world tour.


D4vd rose to fame in recent years with viral hits like “Romantic Homicide” and “Here With Me,” tracks that found massive audiences on TikTok and streaming platforms. He released his debut full-album Withered in April. His growing profile in music has drawn attention both to his work and now, unfortunately, to this incident. Fans and observers await more information as authorities continue gathering evidence.


The discovery has raised numerous questions. When exactly was the body placed in the vehicle? Was it there before or after the car was impounded? Who was responsible, and how did the remains end up in the trunk? For now police are treating it as a death investigation, possibly homicide, and are working to identify the woman. Others connected to the case tow lot staff, the owner of the vehicle, possible witnesses are likely to be interviewed.


The victim’s clothing and identifying marks offer some initial details. She was reported to be wearing a tube top, black leggings, a yellow bracelet, stud earrings, and a distinct tattoo on her right index finger reading “Shhh.” She stood about five-feet one or two inches tall, and had wavy black hair. These details may aid in identification once forensic examinations are complete.


While the case unfolds, the industry and public have watched with concern. Brands and promoters linked to D4vd may face pressure depending on how the investigation proceeds. Meanwhile D4vd’s touring schedule remains intact his next performances still scheduled. Whether the incident will affect his career or cause changes in public perception remains to be seen.


Every new development is being scrutinized autopsy timelines, handling of evidence, how law enforcement treats the case. For many, the discovery is a tragedy in its own right: a woman’s life possibly lost under suspicious circumstances and a public figure caught up in a mystery neither he nor his fans asked for. The story is far from over, and its conclusion may carry heavy emotional, legal, and cultural weight.


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