A disturbing and tragic case has unfolded in Los Angeles, where singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, faces severe charges related to the alleged murder of a 14-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Rivas’ dismembered remains were found in the front trunk of Burke’s Tesla on 8 September 2025, after the vehicle was impounded by authorities.
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Prosecutors accuse Burke of not only murder but also unlawful mutilation of human remains in connection to Rivas’ death. The alleged motive behind the crime revolves around claims that Rivas threatened to reveal their sexual relationship, which began when she was just 13 years old and Burke was 18. These grave allegations came to light as part of a preliminary hearing in Los Angeles Superior Court, where disturbing evidence was presented.
Text messages exchanged between Rivas and Burke were revealed in the court proceedings, highlighting the nature of their relationship. One particularly troubling exchange included discussions on a potential pregnancy and the consideration of an abortion. In a message dated 8 January 2024, Rivas expressed concerns about their situation, stating, “Both of us aren’t able to take care of it.” Burke’s reply, “I know but still,” suggests a troubling disregard for the implications of their circumstances.
The details of their illicit relationship began in August 2022, when Rivas was merely 11 years old, and it escalated into sexual activity by November 2023. Such an age gap, coupled with the timeline, has drawn significant attention from law enforcement, adhering to strict laws surrounding the abuse of minors. Evidence indicated that Rivas had begun to distance herself from Burke mere weeks before her death, expressing a desire for a different type of relationship.
On 23 April 2025, the day Rivas was reported missing, it is alleged that a heated argument regarding Burke’s other relationships led to the tragic events resulting in her death. Days before her disappearance, Rivas sent a text to Burke voicing her concerns about their limited interactions, stating, “All we do is have sex and hang out,” revealing a clear desire for more meaningful connections.
During court testimony, Los Angeles Police Department detective Corey Farell detailed the disturbing discoveries made on Burke’s phone, which included over 40 images of child sexual abuse material involving Rivas, alongside several explicit photographs of the two. The courtroom was inundated with emotion as Rivas’ mother, Mercedes Martinez, struggled to bear witness to the evidence being presented, ultimately needing to exit the room.
Further testimonies from medical examiners revealed grim details about Rivas’ injuries. The court heard that she had suffered two significant penetrating injuries, one damaging her liver and another impacting her ribs. The forensic experts struggled to determine the precise weapon used in the attack due to the severe decomposition of Rivas’ remains. They assessed that the girl would have likely died within minutes or up to an hour after her injuries were inflicted.
The investigation into Burke’s actions escalated as prosecutors outlined how he allegedly dismembered Rivas’ body using tools purchased online—items that included chainsaws and cadaver bags bought from Amazon and Home Depot. This aspect of the case has added another layer of horror to an already tragic series of events.
Despite the overwhelming evidence presented, Burke has pleaded not guilty to the charges. He remains in custody at a Los Angeles County jail as the proceedings continue. The case has not only shocked the local community but has also raised broader questions about the protection of minors in relationships with significantly older individuals.
As the details of this harrowing case continue to unfold, the implications for both the families involved and society at large are profound. Advocacy for stronger measures to safeguard children from exploitation and harm will be central to discussions surrounding this incident. The community awaits further developments as the legal process continues, hoping for justice for Celeste Rivas Hernandez.