Singer D4vd Charged with Murder in Death of Teen Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Los Angeles, CA – David Anthony Burke, known professionally as the singer D4vd, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in the trunk of a Tesla registered to the artist last year. The case, which has drawn national attention, centers around the disappearance of Hernandez and the subsequent discovery of her dismembered body, and has now entered a fresh phase with formal charges filed against Burke.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced the charges on April 24, 2026, alleging that Burke intentionally killed Hernandez. The charges include first-degree murder with special circumstances, lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14 years of age, and mutilation of human remains, according to court documents. These allegations stem from an investigation that began after Hernandez was reported missing in early 2024 and culminated in the grim discovery of her remains in September 2025.
Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a seventh-grader from Lake Elsinore, California, was last seen alive in January 2025, according to investigators. Her family reported her missing multiple times in the year leading up to the discovery of her body. Neighbors described Hernandez as a quiet and friendly girl, often seen walking around her neighborhood with her distinctive long, curly black hair. Kayleigh Cortez, a neighbor, recalled seeing Hernandez three years ago, describing her as a “beautiful little girl.”
The Investigation and Discovery
The investigation into Hernandez’s disappearance took a tragic turn when authorities discovered her dismembered remains in the front trunk of a Tesla owned by Burke. The vehicle was parked on a street in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood, where Burke had rented a multimillion-dollar home. The discovery was made just a day after what would have been Hernandez’s 15th birthday.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office released its report on April 23, 2026, detailing the cause of death. The report determined that Hernandez died from “multiple penetrating injuries” caused by an object or objects, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. ABC7 News reported that one stab wound impacted her liver, and another her chest. The report also noted that Hernandez weighed only 71 pounds at the time her body was found.
Dr. Odey Ukpo, Chief Medical Examiner, emphasized the importance of transparency in the investigation, stating that releasing the information is “essential for empowering the community to make informed changes to affectively reduce fear and allowing the community to take informed action.” He further noted that making the department’s information publicly available is about accountability, social justice, and prevention.
Authorities began to connect Burke to Hernandez after reviewing surveillance footage and digital evidence. The evidence showed that Hernandez and Burke had appeared together in a Twitch livestream in January 2024, and he was photographed near her home on several occasions between then and March 2024. The timeline of events suggests a relationship between the two, though the nature of that relationship remains under scrutiny.
D4vd’s Rise to Fame and the Impact of the Allegations
David Burke, performing as D4vd, quickly rose to prominence in the music industry with his alt-pop sound. He gained significant attention for his independently released tracks, achieving viral success on platforms like TikTok. His music resonated with a young audience, and he was poised for a successful career before the allegations surfaced. The contrast between his burgeoning fame and the horrific charges he now faces has shocked many in the music world, and beyond.
The case has sparked a conversation about the potential dangers faced by young people who may be drawn to the allure of celebrity culture. Cortez, the neighbor of Hernandez, noted that “Hollywood will always entice kids,” and that the opportunity to meet a celebrity can be appealing to teenagers. She emphasized the quiet nature of Lake Elsinore, contrasting it with the excitement and potential risks of Los Angeles.
The allegations against Burke have also raised concerns about online safety and the vulnerability of young people to exploitation. Investigators are examining the extent of their interactions and whether any online grooming or manipulation occurred. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of parental awareness and vigilance in protecting children from harm.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Burke was taken into custody and is currently awaiting trial. He has not yet entered a plea. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is pursuing the case aggressively, seeking a conviction on all charges. If convicted of first-degree murder with special circumstances, Burke could face a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The legal proceedings are expected to be complex and lengthy, involving extensive evidence presentation and witness testimony. The defense is likely to challenge the prosecution’s case, questioning the evidence and raising doubts about Burke’s guilt. The case has already garnered significant media attention, and the trial is expected to be closely followed by the public.
The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez has expressed their grief and devastation over her death. Through their attorney, they released a statement expressing gratitude for the release of the Medical Examiner’s report and seeking justice for their daughter. The family is also advocating for increased awareness of the dangers faced by young people and for stronger protections against exploitation.
The next scheduled court date for David Burke is May 15, 2026, for a preliminary hearing where a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. Updates on the case will be available on the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office website.
This is a developing story, and the World Today Journal will continue to provide updates as they become available. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and reactions in the comments section below.