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DNA expert ties 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez to blood stains found in D4vd's garage
Summary by The San Antonio Editorial Desk · Based on reporting by Andrew Dalton, Associated Press , KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 23, 2026
· 5 min read
A DNA expert testified Thursday that evidence recovered from apparent blood stains in the garage of D4vd's Hollywood home was a strong DNA match for 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez , the girl he is charged with stabbing to death. Prosecutors are alleging that D4vd killed the girl then dismemb...
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Summary created by The San Antonio Editorial Desk — automated, rule-governed Original reporting Andrew Dalton, Associated Press, KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) Original story Read at the source Source published Jul 23, 2026 Indexed here Jul 24, 2026 AI assistance Automated summary drawn from the source’s own published text Prepublication human review No — editorial rules, flagged-item review, and published samples
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Key takeaway Tosch said the matches of several samples were “one septillion times more likely to occur if it originated from Celeste rather than anyone else in the population,” and pointed out the number had 24 zeros.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
The DNA evidence presented in the preliminary hearing against D4vd has significant implications for the San Antonio community, where 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez lived. As the case unfolds, residents are likely to be watching closely to see how the justice system handles allegations of violent crime and exploitation of a minor. The fact that prosecutors are alleging D4vd killed Rivas Hernandez to protect his career raises questions about the accountability of public figures and the vulnerability of young people in our community. The use of advanced DNA testing to build a case against D4vd also highlights the importance of forensic science in solving crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice. As the hearing continues, San Antonio will be looking for a thorough and transparent investigation, and a commitment to supporting the family and loved ones of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The community's trust in the justice system hangs in the balance.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 23, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A DNA expert testified Thursday that evidence recovered from apparent blood stains in the garage of D4vd's Hollywood home was a strong DNA match for 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez , the girl he is charged with stabbing to death. Prosecutors are alleging that D4vd killed the girl then dismemb...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 23, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Andrew Dalton, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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