A judge from the Los Angeles County Superior Court has ruled that enough evidence exists to proceed with a trial against the musician known as D4vd, real name David Anthony Burke, who is accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. This decision followed a five-day preliminary hearing that concluded on Monday, July 27.
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Celeste’s family expressed their relief regarding the judge’s ruling. Attorney Patrick Steinfeld provided commentary on their emotional state, stating, “The family’s relieved that it’s done with. They’re going to take a break and they appreciate the hard work the district attorney’s office has done, as well as the investigation by LAPD investigators.” The family, who has largely remained out of the public eye, also recognised the role of the media in bringing attention to the case, thanking journalists for keeping Celeste’s name in the spotlight.
Burke faces serious charges in connection with the alleged murder, which occurred on April 23, 2025, following claims that Rivas threatened to disclose their illegal relationship, potentially damaging his burgeoning music career. Just two days after Rivas’ death, Burke released his debut album. Prosecutors allege that after the crime, Burke dismembered Rivas’ body and disposed of her remains using items purchased online, which included chainsaws, cadaver bags, and a shovel.
The preliminary hearing revealed chilling details, including testimony from police detectives who discovered blood that matched Rivas’ DNA in Burke’s garage. Her dismembered remains were located in the trunk of Burke’s Tesla on September 8, 2025, shortly after his car was impounded near his home in Hollywood Hills. Burke was subsequently arrested in April 2026.
During the hearing, emotions ran high when Rivas’ mother, Mercedes Martinez, was visibly affected upon seeing her daughter’s passport photo in court. The proceedings involved the presentation of graphic images from the crime scene, marking a painful and traumatic experience for the family.
Detective Corey Farell from the Los Angeles Police Department testified about the extensive communication between Burke and Rivas, detailing the conversations surrounding sensitive topics such as abortion and contraceptive measures. The investigation also uncovered more than 40 images containing child sexual abuse material linked to Rivas on Burke’s iPhone, along with several photos depicting sexual encounters between the two.
Prosecutors claim that Burke began communicating with Rivas when she was just 11 years old and that their sexual relationship started when she turned 13, while he was 18. The charges against him are severe, including first-degree murder, which carries special circumstances for lying in wait and committing the act for financial gain. Furthermore, he is charged with lewd and lascivious acts involving a minor and the mutilation of human remains.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman provided context following the judge’s decision, highlighting the gravity of the situation. He indicated that his office is considering whether to pursue the death penalty, as Burke faces the possibility of life imprisonment without parole if convicted. Hochman articulated the harrowing impact of the crime, stating, “This has been a parent’s worst nightmare, hearing the ghoulish details of how their child was killed, dismembered and left as trash.”
Following the ruling, Burke, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, will remain in custody without bail. His arraignment is set for August 31, with a trial anticipated to commence within two months thereafter.
As the case unfolds, the community and family continue to grapple with the grievous implications of the alleged crime, reflecting broader concerns regarding the safety of minors and the consequences of predatory behaviour in society. The upcoming trial is sure to attract significant public attention, as it brings to light issues of justice and accountability in cases involving vulnerable individuals.
