Celeste Family Remembers Beautiful, Strong Teen Who Loved to Sing and Dance

The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez has spoken publicly for the first time since singer D4vd was charged with her alleged murder, describing her as “a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance” in a statement released through their attorney.

Celeste, a 14-year-old from Lake Elsinore, California, was found dead in September 2025 inside the trunk of a Tesla linked to D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged Burke with first-degree murder last week following a monthslong investigation, with special circumstances including murder of a witness, murder for financial gain, and lying in wait.

In their statement, Celeste’s parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, thanked law enforcement and the community for their support while expressing their grief and desire for justice. “Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance,” they said. “Every Friday night was movie night and we spent wonderful times together. We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply.”

The family emphasized that their sole request is justice for Celeste, noting that she had braces at the time of her death and had not yet reached her 15th birthday. They attended Burke’s first court appearance on April 20, 2026, where he pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

Prosecutors allege that Burke believed rumors of a sexual relationship with Celeste could harm his emerging music career, which motivated the financial gain circumstance in the murder charge. The teen’s remains were discovered after tow yard workers reported a foul odor coming from the abandoned Tesla where her body was found.

Burke has remained in custody since his arrest and is being held without bail. The family’s attorney, Patrick Steinfeld, stated that they are committed to ensuring Celeste’s voice is heard and her memory honored throughout the legal process.

The case has drawn attention not only for its tragic circumstances but also for the intersection of a young life lost and the rising profile of a musician whose real identity and actions now face intense legal scrutiny. As proceedings continue, the family’s statement serves as a solemn reminder of the human cost behind the headlines.