Celeste Rivas cause of death update: What officials say today

Authorities have not determined the cause or manner of death for Celeste Rivas. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner still lists the cause as “deferred” while testing continues. The 15-year-old was discovered on September 8, 2025, inside a Tesla in Hollywood.

Investigators say this remains a death investigation, not a declared homicide. Toxicology and lab analysis are still pending. Police have not named a suspect.

Key facts in the Celeste Rivas cause of death update

Records show the cause of death is deferred as forensic work proceeds. Officials note the body was severely decomposed at discovery, complicating timelines and lab work. Authorities have not announced any ruling on manner of death.

Police served a search warrant at a rental home tied to the vehicle during the week after the discovery. Items were seized for analysis under the Robbery-Homicide Division’s supervision. The artist linked to the vehicle has canceled tour dates and says he is cooperating with the investigation.

The Medical Examiner lists the place of death as “vehicle.” The date of death is recorded as September 8, the day the remains were found. A death certificate reviewed by major outlets confirms the ongoing “deferred” status. Officials also stated the teen was not pregnant within the last year.

Law enforcement has urged patience while specialists complete toxicology and digital forensics. Timelines, communications, and movements around early September are under review. Any future ruling will come from the Medical Examiner once testing ends.

What this means for the case right now

The lack of an official cause or manner of death limits public conclusions. Investigators must reconcile decomposition findings with device data, camera footage, and witness statements. This takes time and careful validation.

Families and the community want answers, but premature claims risk misinformation. A formal ruling will determine next steps, whether that is a criminal case or a different legal path. Until then, facts depend on lab results and official statements only.

Bottom line: the Celeste Rivas cause of death update remains “deferred.” Officials have not ruled on manner of death. Further results from toxicology and evidence reviews will guide the next public update.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the official status of the cause of death?

It is “deferred” pending toxicology and additional testing. No manner of death has been announced.

Q2: Is this being investigated as a homicide?

Police describe it as an active death investigation. No public declaration of homicide has been made.

Q3: When was Celeste Rivas found?

She was found on September 8, 2025, inside a Tesla in Hollywood.

Q4: What has law enforcement done so far?

Detectives executed a search warrant at a related property and collected evidence. Forensic testing is ongoing.

Q5: Has any suspect been named?

No. Officials have not named a suspect. Public statements emphasize ongoing cooperation with investigators.