California Teacher Goes Viral for Sharing Heartbreaking Story of Former Student Found in D4vd Tesla Trunk

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 20, 2025

Los Angeles, CA – A California teacher has recently captured widespread attention after he shared the deeply emotional and tragic story of a former student, Celeste Rivas, a 15-year-old girl whose body was discovered in the Tesla trunk of singer D4vd. The teacher’s raw and honest lesson about the dangers of online interactions and internet safety has sparked significant discussion both inside and outside the classroom.

Unlike traditional lectures, this teacher chose to bring a real and painful event directly to his students, highlighting how the consequences of unchecked online behavior can be devastating and deeply personal.

A Personal and Powerful Classroom Lesson

The teacher recounted how Celeste Rivas, who was once a student in his class, went missing after forming an online relationship with the Los Angeles rapper D4vd. Despite being found and returning to school briefly, she vanished again, only for her dismembered remains to be found later inside the artist’s Tesla.

His intent was clear: to drive home the serious risks of internet grooming and predatory behavior that are often underestimated by young people who feel such dangers happen to others, not someone they once knew.

Celeste Rivas was 15 years old at the time she disappeared.
She initially went missing nearly a year before her body was discovered.
The tragic event was linked to social media contact with the rapper D4vd.
The teacher used this story to warn students about online safety and the real dangers lurking on social platforms.

“Good teacher for setting an example. Play stupid games, hide behind your phone, and win really stupid prizes.”

This profound and personal story resonated with many, creating a powerful cautionary tale, rather than a distant, forgettable headline.

Community Reactions Highlight the Complexity of the Tragedy

While many praised the teacher’s bold approach to teaching such an uncomfortable lesson, some community members urged for a balanced perspective. Conversations online emphasized not only the importance of social media safety but also the critical need to educate students on recognizing signs of grooming and manipulation.

Experts and commenters alike reminded that teenagers like Celeste are vulnerable to exploitation, and the responsibility for such tragedies lies with the abusers, not the victims.

“We absolutely need more internet safety lessons in classrooms. Teachers should also help kids understand what grooming looks like and what they can do if someone in their life starts crossing boundaries.”

Raising awareness about grooming can provide students with vital tools to protect themselves.
Educators are encouraged to create lessons that avoid victim-blaming and highlight abuser accountability.
Online discussions stress the significance of empathy when discussing such sensitive topics.

Implications for Internet Safety Education in Schools

This incident underscores an urgent need for more comprehensive internet safety education in schools. The teacher’s lesson offers a blueprint for educators to engage students with real-life examples that resonate deeply while encouraging critical conversations about personal safety online.

By integrating authentic stories like Celeste’s, schools may better equip students to navigate complex online environments, recognize warning signs early, and seek help when necessary.

For more details on this story and its broader impact, visit the original report at The Nerd Stash.

What Do You Think About This Lesson?

The tragic story shared by this California teacher raises difficult questions about how educators can best approach internet safety and student vulnerability. What do you think about using real-life tragedies as teaching tools? Are you a teacher or student who has experienced impactful lessons on online safety? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!