Singer-songwriter D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, is scheduled to appear in a Los Angeles courtroom on Tuesday as prosecutors aim to demonstrate sufficient evidence for him to stand trial for the murder and sexual abuse of a minor, Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The preliminary hearing is expected to conclude on Thursday, following several delays partly due to the extensive volume of investigatory evidence.
Prosecution's Allegations
Los Angeles County prosecutors accuse Burke of stabbing Hernandez to death at his Los Angeles residence in April 2025 to prevent her from revealing the sexual nature of their relationship as his career was rising, according to court documents. Prosecutors claim the sexual relationship began in November 2023, when Burke was 18 and Hernandez was 13. Burke allegedly mutilated her body, using a chainsaw to saw her limbs and amputating her ring finger, which bore a tattoo of his name, before discarding the dismembered limbs in a Tesla.
Discovery of Remains
In September 2025, Los Angeles police found Hernandez's decomposed remains in a Tesla impounded at a Hollywood tow yard. The yard manager alerted law enforcement after noticing a strong odor and flies around the vehicle, according to prosecutors. Burke, now 21, was arrested in April 2026 and has been held without bail. If convicted of murder, he faces the death penalty or life in prison without parole.
Defense and Evidence
At the time of his arrest, Burke's defense team stated he “was not the cause” of Hernandez's death. Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges. In an April brief, prosecutors previewed evidence including text messages between Burke and Hernandez showing alleged sexual relations and threats by Hernandez to expose him. The state also plans to present surveillance video of Burke driving the Tesla in July 2025, his purchases of a body bag and two chainsaws, and forensic evidence linking blood stains in his garage to Hernandez's genetic profile.
Background and Impact
Burke rose to fame through viral TikTok singles. In July 2025, he launched an international tour for his debut album Withered, but the tour was canceled in September after Hernandez's body was found in his car. Several former collaborators have distanced themselves from him. In April, Hernandez's family released a statement: “Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. Every Friday night was movie night and we spent wonderful times together. We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.”
