Title: D4vd Rapper Faces Murder and Mutilation Charges in Death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez — Family Speaks Out After Arrest

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, was arrested on April 17, 2026, in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The arrest followed the discovery of the teenager’s dismembered remains in the trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke in September 2025. D4vd is being held without bail at the 77th Street Community Police Station in South Los Angeles.

The case has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the allegations and the victim’s age. According to court documents referenced in the arrest reports, D4vd faces charges including first-degree murder with special circumstances, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, use of a deadly weapon, and mutilation of human remains. These charges stem from a grand jury investigation that began in February 2026, after which D4vd was named as a target.

LAPD officials stated that surveillance and physical evidence linked Burke to the crime. Captain Scot M. Williams of the LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division said investigators had developed probable cause through diligent monitoring after the grand jury investigation commenced. The arrest followed a coordinated operation involving LAPD officers and the U.S. Marshals Task Force, who descended on a Hollywood Hills residence where Burke was staying around 5 p.m. On April 17, 2026. He was taken into custody and booked at 10:12 p.m. That same night.

The victim, Celeste Rivas Hernandez, was reported missing by her family in April 2024 after last contacting them in May 2024. Her remains were discovered on September 8, 2025, inside the front trunk of a Tesla that had been impounded by a tow yard due to a foul odor emanating from the vehicle. Forensic analysis conducted by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the death as a homicide, though specific details of the cause have not been released publicly.

D4vd’s legal team has maintained his innocence, asserting that the evidence will ultimately show he did not commit the crime. In a statement provided to media outlets, his attorneys emphasized that no indictment has been returned by any grand jury and no formal criminal complaint has been filed, noting that he is currently being held only on suspicion. They pledged to vigorously defend him against the charges.

The case has reignited public interest in D4vd’s music, particularly songs like “Romantic Homicide” and “Here with Me,” which have been reexamined in light of the allegations. However, no official statements have been issued by his record label or representatives regarding the impact on his career or upcoming projects. As of April 21, 2026, D4vd remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.