D4vd Charged with Murder and Sexual Abuse in Death of 14-Year-Old Celeste Rivas Hernandez

A prosecutor stated in court on Thursday that a cellphone belonging to David Anthony Burke, the musician known as D4vd, contained child pornography, adding to the charges against him in the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

Burke, who performs under the name D4vd, is charged with first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains in connection with Hernandez’s death. Her remains were found in the trunk of his Tesla in Los Angeles in September 2024, more than a year after she was reported missing in Riverside County.

Prosecutors allege that Burke killed Hernandez to prevent her from reporting sexual abuse that occurred between September 7, 2023, and September 7, 2024, while she was under his recurring access. They also claim he sought to maintain his music career by eliminating her as a witness.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined Hernandez died from multiple penetrating injuries, with stab wounds to her abdomen, and chest. Her body weighed 71 pounds when recovered dismembered from the vehicle’s front trunk.

Burke pleaded not guilty at his initial court appearance on April 20, 2026. A status hearing in the case is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2026, where further proceedings are expected.

The case includes special circumstance allegations of lying in wait, murder for financial gain, and murdering a witness to an investigation, which could lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty if proven.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized the gravity of the case during a news conference, stating that prosecutors are seeking enhancements to the murder charge based on the alleged motive and circumstances surrounding Hernandez’s death.