D4vd Charged with First-Degree Murder in Death of Teen Celeste Rivas Hernandez

Los Angeles prosecutors announced on April 20, 2026, that singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The charges were filed following the discovery of the teenager’s dismembered and decomposed remains in two bags inside the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke in September 2025.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office stated that Burke faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder with special circumstances, continuous lewd acts with an individual under 14, and mutilation of human remains. The special circumstances cited include lying in wait, committing the crime for financial gain, and murdering a witness in an investigation, which could result in a maximum sentence of life without parole or the death penalty.

Background on the Case

Celeste Rivas Hernandez was reported missing in April 2024 after last contacting her family in May 2024. Her remains were discovered on September 8, 2025, in Hollywood Hills, California, inside the impounded Tesla linked to Burke. Surveillance footage and digital evidence indicated she was alive in September 2024 and January 2025, according to investigative findings.

Burke, a 21-year-old singer-songwriter best known for songs such as “Romantic Homicide” and “Here with Me,” was arrested on April 16, 2026, in Los Angeles around 5 p.m. He pleaded not guilty to all charges shortly after the press conference announcing the indictment.

Legal Proceedings and Defense Statement

During his arraignment, Burke did not speak, and his legal team entered the not guilty plea on his behalf. His attorneys—Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter—maintained his innocence, stating that “the actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not the cause of her death.” They pledged to vigorously defend his innocence throughout the proceedings.

The Los Angeles district attorney emphasized the severity of the allegations during the press conference, noting that the case involves accusations of continuous sexual abuse of a minor and mutilation of a body. A determination on whether prosecutors will seek the death penalty will be made at a later stage in the legal process.

Industry and Public Response

The news of Burke’s arrest and charges has drawn significant attention within the entertainment industry, particularly given his rising profile as a musician known for emotionally charged songs exploring themes of love and heartbreak. His legal team has consistently asserted that the evidence will not support the prosecution’s narrative, calling for a thorough examination of the facts as the case moves forward.

As of April 22, 2026, the case remains active in the Los Angeles County court system, with no trial date set. Both the prosecution and defense continue to prepare their arguments ahead of future hearings.