Prosecutors Outline Grave Accusations (Image Credits: Pexels)
Los Angeles — A shocking turn gripped the entertainment industry as 21-year-old singer D4vd, legally known as David Anthony Burke, faced first-degree murder charges in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors detailed allegations of sexual abuse, a fatal stabbing with a sharp instrument, and the mutilation of her body, which remained hidden in the front trunk of his impounded Tesla for months.[1][2] The case emerged from a lengthy secret investigation, culminating in Burke’s arrest last week and his not guilty plea on Monday.[3]
Prosecutors Outline Grave Accusations
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges during a news conference, describing the incident as a parent’s nightmare. Burke faced one count of first-degree murder with special circumstances, including lying in wait, murder for financial gain to protect his career, and eliminating a witness to prior crimes. Additional counts included continuous lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains.[1][2]
Hochman emphasized the brutality. “Celeste was just a child, under 14 years old, when David Burke allegedly engaged in repeated lewd and lascivious sexual relations with her,” he stated. Prosecutors alleged that when she threatened to expose the abuse, Burke killed her on or around April 23, 2025, severed her limbs about two weeks later, and stuffed the parts into cadaver bags.[4] The special circumstances could lead to life without parole or the death penalty, though no final decision on capital punishment has been made.[5]
Horrific Discovery in a Tow Yard
On September 8, 2025, workers at a Hollywood tow yard uncovered a grim scene inside a 2023 Tesla Model Y registered to Burke. A cadaver bag emitted a strong odor of decay and crawled with insects; inside lay Hernandez’s decomposed head and torso, with severed arms and legs in a second bag beneath.[1] The vehicle had been reported abandoned in the Hollywood Hills months earlier, while Burke toured elsewhere.[3]
Investigators from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division linked the car directly to the singer through registration at his family’s Texas address. The medical examiner sealed autopsy details initially, but a judge ordered their release following the charges. Physical, forensic, and digital evidence, including 40 terabytes of data, supported the probe.[4]
Timeline of Abuse, Murder, and Investigation
The allegations spanned over a year. Hernandez, a frequent runaway from Lake Elsinore in Riverside County, connected with Burke via social media in 2024. Abuse reportedly began on her 13th birthday in September 2023 and continued.[4]
- September 2023 – September 2024: Continuous sexual abuse while Hernandez was under 14.
- April 23, 2025: Last seen entering Burke’s Hollywood Hills home; alleged murder date.
- Early May 2025: Body mutilated.
- September 8, 2025: Remains discovered.
- November 2025: Secret grand jury convened.
- April 17, 2026: Burke arrested.
- April 20, 2026: Charges filed and not guilty plea entered.
From TikTok Stardom to Courtroom Drama
Burke rose swiftly from Houston roots, going viral on TikTok in 2022 with “Romantic Homicide,” which hit No. 4 on Billboard charts. He signed with Interscope, released EPs like Petals to Thorns, and debuted his album Withered days after the alleged murder. Hits like “Here With Me” drew millions, including Fortnite features and tours opening for SZA.[1][3]
His label dropped him in 2025 amid scrutiny. Burke performed at Coachella just days before arrest but canceled prior tours after body discovery reports surfaced. Defense attorney Blair Berk insisted innocence: “We believe the actual evidence will show David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez.”[1] The team demanded a swift public preliminary hearing.[4]
Court Proceedings and Path Ahead
Burke appeared in black attire behind glass at his April 20 arraignment, silent as Berk entered pleas. Judge denied bail, citing risks. A preliminary hearing loomed within 10 court days, with a status hearing set for April 23.[1] LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell defended the seven-month delay, stressing patience to avoid jeopardizing the case.[3]
Hernandez’s family attended court, their grief palpable, but offered no comment. Prosecutors urged tips from witnesses.[4]
- First-degree murder with special circumstances could mean death or life without parole.
- Body hidden for over four months before discovery fueled secret probe.
- Defense vows vigorous fight, citing exculpatory evidence.
This case underscores the shadows behind fame’s glare, where a teen’s disappearance unraveled a star’s ascent. As proceedings unfold, justice for Celeste Rivas Hernandez remains the focus. What are your thoughts on this unfolding story? Share in the comments below.
