D4vd Case: Foul Odor from Celeste Rivas' Remains Filled Morgue Hallway

During the preliminary hearing for D4vd, gruesome photos of the dismembered and decomposing remains of Celeste Rivas were shown. But testimony about the unbearable smell was equally shocking.

Dr. Grant Ho from the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner told the judge that the odor from the teen's remains was so overwhelming it could be smelled down the hallway before the body was brought into the examination room for autopsy.

This horrifying detail is significant because the smell of the decomposing remains led to the case being opened. Last September, workers at a Hollywood tow yard noticed the foul odor, which led to the grisly discovery.

Prosecutors say the Tesla where Celeste's remains were found contained 11 air fresheners, suggesting an attempt to mask the smell of decomposition.

After five days of detailed and graphic testimony from 12 witnesses during the preliminary hearing, the judge ordered the case to proceed to trial, which must begin within 90 days.

D4vd faces a murder charge with special circumstances, making him eligible for the death penalty, though prosecutors have not decided whether to seek capital punishment. He is also charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains. He has pleaded not guilty.