LOS ANGELES — Singer David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd, has been formally charged with first-degree murder in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
The charges, announced on April 20, 2026, also include continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and mutilation of human remains. Burke pleaded not guilty and is being held without bail.
Discovery of Remains
On September 8, 2025, police responded to a foul odor at the Hollywood Tow impound lot in Los Angeles. Inside the trunk of a 2023 Tesla Model Y registered to Burke, officers discovered human remains in two bags.
According to court documents, one black cadaver bag contained a decomposed head and torso, while a second bag contained dismembered body parts, including severed arms and legs. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified the remains as those of Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
An autopsy report determined the cause of death to be multiple penetrating injuries to the torso and ruled the death a homicide. The report noted the body had been in the vehicle for an extended period and was severely decomposed. Toxicology tests found presumptive positive results for benzodiazepines and methamphetamine/MDMA in her system.
Victim Background
Celeste Rivas Hernandez was a resident of Lake Elsinore, California. According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, she was last seen on April 5, 2024, and was reported missing by her family.
Authorities state she was 14 years old at the time of her death. Her remains were discovered one day after what would have been her 15th birthday.
Investigation and Legal Timeline
Following the discovery of the remains, the Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery-Homicide Division launched an investigation. A Los Angeles County grand jury was convened, and court documents filed in February 2025 identified Burke as the target of the probe.
Burke was arrested on April 16, 2026, at a residence in Hollywood. He is being held without bail. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed charges on April 20, 2026.
The murder charge includes special circumstances: lying in wait, committing the murder for financial gain, and murdering a witness. These circumstances make the case eligible for a sentence of life without parole or the death penalty. Prosecutors have not announced a decision on seeking the death penalty.
Prosecution Allegations
During court proceedings, prosecutors stated that the investigation uncovered evidence of a long-term sexual relationship between Burke and the victim. The criminal complaint alleges the sexual abuse began on or around September 7, 2023, when the victim was 13, and continued until September 7, 2024.
According to District Attorney Nathan Hochman, the alleged motive for the murder was to protect Burke's music career from exposure. Prosecutors stated that the victim threatened to disclose the relationship, which Burke feared would damage his career.
Court documents allege that Burke purchased two chainsaws, a body bag, heavy-duty laundry bags, and an inflatable pool under a false name after the murder. The victim's left ring and pinky fingers were amputated, allegedly to remove a tattoo of Burke's name. Blue plastic fragments consistent with the inflatable pool were reportedly found embedded in the victim's remains. Evidence was allegedly discarded at Lake Cachuma in Santa Barbara County.
Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman stated in court that Burke's iCloud account contained a "significant amount" of child sex abuse images, discovered through search warrants on his phone and iCloud account.
Defense Statements
Burke's attorneys — Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter — have issued statements asserting his innocence.
"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. We will vigorously defend David's innocence."
Defense attorneys noted that no indictment had been returned by a grand jury and no criminal complaint had been filed at the time of his initial detention.
Statements from Parties
The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, through attorney Patrick Steinfeld, released statements thanking law enforcement and the community for their support.
"Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste."
— Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, parents of Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell stated that the investigation was complex due to the condition of the remains and the elapsed time between death and discovery. He noted that crucial evidence had degraded, requiring patience and discipline from investigators.
Career and Industry Response
David Anthony Burke, 21, is a singer from Houston, Texas, who performs under the name D4vd. He gained popularity on TikTok in 2022 with the song "Romantic Homicide" and signed with Darkroom and Interscope Records.
When the remains were discovered, Burke was on his "Withered" world tour. A spokesperson at the time stated he was aware of the situation and cooperating with authorities. Burke subsequently canceled the remainder of his U.S. tour and a scheduled European tour.
Following reports linking Burke to the case, several brands removed campaign content featuring him. Musician Kali Uchis announced she was working to remove a collaborative song with Burke from streaming services. Interscope Records reportedly dropped Burke after his arrest.
Legal Proceedings
Burke's preliminary hearing is scheduled to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial. The judge ordered Burke to remain in custody without bail.