In brief
Los Angeles prosecutors have taken US musician D4vd, real name David Anthony Burke, to trial over the 2024 death of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. In a five‑day preliminary hearing, witnesses were questioned and photographic proof of the teen’s remains was shown. Attorneys allege Burke stabbed, dismembered, and killed the girl after a sexual‑abuse relationship and threats from the victim. Burke, 21, pleaded not guilty; the arraignment is set for August 31 with the trial likely within 90 days. Images of the case reveal the singer in the courtroom during the arraignment.
D4vd faces murder trial following the death of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
After a five‑day preliminary hearing, Los Angeles prosecutors confirmed that David Anthony Burke, better known as pop‑artist D4vd, triggered a court ruling that he must stand trial. The hearing featured a dozen witnesses and photographic evidence of the teen’s body, which was recovered last September in a Tesla registered to Burke’s address.
Burke, 21, has pleaded not guilty to murder and sexual‑abuse charges. An arraignment is scheduled for August 31 2026, with the trial expected to begin within 90 days thereafter.
Prosecutors claim Burke stabbed, dismembered, and killed Hernandez after years of alleged sexual abuse. They argue he acted to silence her after the teen threatened to publicise their relationship with a minor, potentially wrecking his multi‑million‑dollar music career. Court transcripts show texts from 22 April 2025 in which the teen said, "I swear to GOD I will kill u" and threatened to destroy his career.
Following the messages, prosecutors say Burke had Hernandez pull into his Hollywood home by Uber—a ride he offered—where he allegedly stabbed her upon arrival. The case has drawn national attention, with the music industry and youth safety groups calling for a thorough investigation. The gravity of the allegations places D4vd in one of the most scrutinised criminal cases of the year, prompting debate around artistic influence, celebrity liability, and protection of minors.
