In a rare move, the Los Angeles County chief medical examiner has publicly questioned the delay in releasing autopsy results for 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Her case, involving a dismembered body found in a Tesla in the Hollywood Hills, has led to murder charges against singer D4vd, who maintains his innocence.
Dr. Odey Ukpo, the county’s chief medical examiner, stated it was “unfathomable” that the parents had to wait so long for answers. This statement accompanies the autopsy report, which had been sealed by court order during the investigation. Ukpo’s office found that Rivas Hernandez died from stab wounds, shedding light on a case that has attracted significant public and media attention.
D4vd, who has pleaded not guilty this week, faces a crucial preliminary hearing to decide if the evidence warrants a trial. The medical examiner’s office plays a pivotal role in such cases, as it did in the deaths of celebrities like Matthew Perry and Rob Reiner.
The Medical Examiner’s Independence
Ukpo’s comments signal a pushback against the practice of sealing autopsy reports, which he believes hinders transparency. “It’s important for us to release the information,” he said. He argues that the public deserves to know the cause of death, as it helps in understanding and preventing similar situations.
In the case of the Reiners, whose autopsies remain sealed, Ukpo expressed frustration at the lack of transparency. “It’s unclear to me what sort of information we have that would ruin the case,” he remarked.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department defended the practice, stating that security holds on autopsy reports are rare and carefully considered. These holds are meant to protect sensitive information that could impact investigations.
Redefining Roles and Responsibilities
Ukpo’s appointment as chief medical examiner in 2023 marked a significant moment for the department, which has dropped the “coroner” title to emphasize its independence from law enforcement. Ukpo explained, “’Coroner’ just kind of confused our purpose and suggested that we were within a law enforcement agency.”
The National Association of Medical Examiners supports Ukpo’s stance on maintaining independence from law enforcement, endorsing his efforts for transparency and unbiased assessments.
Path to Forensic Pathology
Ukpo’s journey to forensic pathology began in his youth, when he aspired to be a homicide detective. Inspired by his family physician, he chose a medical career, focusing on forensic pathology. His education took him to prestigious institutions like Loyola University and the Mayo Clinic.
Celebrity Cases and Public Awareness
Ukpo has handled high-profile autopsies, including those of rapper Mac Miller and actor Tommy Lister Jr. His office determined Matthew Perry’s death was due to acute ketamine toxicity, highlighting the need for public awareness about the dangers of ketamine.
Ukpo’s work is driven by a commitment to public service, emphasizing the broader impact of death on communities. “What I’m trying to shift during my leadership here is to try to focus on community first,” he said, acknowledging the reverberating effects of loss.
