Family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez Demands Justice After D4vd Charged With Murder

The family of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has issued a public plea for justice following the first-degree murder charges filed against singer D4vd. The charges stem from the brutal killing and dismemberment of Rivas, whose remains were discovered in the singer's impounded vehicle in late 2025.

The Details

D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, was arrested on April 16, 2026, and subsequently charged with first-degree murder, mutilation of a body, and the continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14. According to L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, Burke allegedly murdered Rivas on April 23, 2025, at his residence in the Hollywood Hills. Investigators believe the motive for the killing was to prevent Rivas from exposing Burke's criminal conduct regarding the abuse of a minor.

The details of the crime are described by prosecutors as 'horrific and gruesome.' District Attorney Hochman stated that Burke allegedly cut up the victim's body and concealed the remains in two bags, which were سپس placed in the front trunk of his Tesla. The body remained hidden until September 8, 2025, when a 'foul odor' emanating from the vehicle at the Hollywood Tow lot prompted an investigation. Forensics later identified the decomposed remains as those of Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

At his arraignment on April 20, 2026, at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center, D4vd pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense attorney, Blair Berk, has publicly challenged the prosecution's case, stating that the actual evidence will demonstrate that Burke did not murder the teenager. While Burke was previously described as 'fully cooperating' with authorities following the discovery of the body, he now faces life in prison if convicted.

Context

The timing of the alleged crime adds a stark contrast to the public image D4vd had at the time. Prosecutors allege the murder occurred on April 23, 2025, just two days before the artist released his debut album, 'Withered.' The singer has since seen a total collapse of his professional standing; reports indicate that major music business partnerships, including deals with Sony Music and The Team, have been severed in the wake of the arrest.

Celeste Rivas Hernandez was only 14 years old at the time of her disappearance. Her family, based in Lake Elsinore, has spent the last year seeking answers after she vanished following a visit to Burke's home. The case has sparked widespread condemnation of the alleged violence and the predatory nature of the conduct described by the District Attorney.

What's Next

The legal proceedings against David Anthony Burke are expected to be extensive, given the severity of the charges and the forensic nature of the evidence. The prosecution will likely rely heavily on the physical evidence found within the impounded Tesla and digital footprints leading up to Rivas's disappearance in April 2025.

As the case moves toward trial, the family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez continues to advocate for a verdict that reflects the brutality of the crime. The music industry continues to distance itself from the former star as the full details of the 'sexual predator' allegations surfaced by the L.A. County District Attorney's office become public.