A preliminary hearing has exposed disturbing details surrounding the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, implicating the singer known as D4vd. The artist, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, faces charges including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and the unlawful mutilation of human remains. He has entered a not guilty plea and is currently being held without bail as his trial approaches.
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During the hearing on July 21, 2025, Detective Joshua Byers from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division presented evidence from Burke’s online purchase history. According to the detective, Burke made several alarming purchases shortly before and after Rivas’ murder, which prosecutors claim occurred on April 23, 2025.
Among the items highlighted in court were two cadaver bags purchase on May 5, just days after the alleged murder. Furthermore, evidence showed that Burke bought a shovel on April 24, the day after Rivas was purportedly killed. Between May 1 and May 4, he allegedly ordered three chainsaws, in addition to unusual items such as a blue inflatable pool and two heavy-duty laundry bags.
The tragic case began when Rivas, a runaway from Lake Elsinore, California, was reported missing. Authorities located her dismembered remains in separate bags in the front trunk of Burke’s abandoned Tesla on September 8, 2025. The discovery followed complaints from the public regarding a foul odour emanating from the vehicle.
Prosecutors claim that Rivas threatened to expose Burke’s alleged illegal activities, including their sexual relationship, which was corroborated by explicit messages discovered on Burke’s mobile phone. It is alleged that in an attempt to sever ties with the victim, Burke mutilated her remains, including the severing of two fingers—one of which reportedly bore a tattoo of his name.
Burke’s legal representatives have asserted his innocence, maintaining that he “was not the cause” of Rivas’ death. They expressed intentions to mount a vigorous defence in light of the serious allegations.
The charges against Burke carry severe penalties. Due to the special circumstances of the case, he could potentially face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or even the death penalty. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has yet to announce whether they will pursue capital punishment.
Graphic images related to the dismemberment were shown in court, sending shockwaves through the proceedings as Burke and Rivas’ family members bore witness to the evidence. The case continues to capture media attention and stir public outrage, highlighting the complex issues surrounding child abuse and accountability.
The preliminary hearing was only a glimpse into the harrowing details of this case, and as the trial approaches, further revelations are anticipated. The legal proceedings have sparked discussions about the responsibilities of artists and public figures when faced with serious allegations, as well as the broader implications of child exploitation in modern society.
As the nation waits for further updates, this case serves as a grim reminder of the serious consequences of such heinous acts, and the need for justice for victims like Celeste Rivas Hernandez.