LOS ANGELES – In a shocking case that has captured the attention of many, prosecutors have accused singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, of committing a horrific crime involving the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. According to court documents, Burke allegedly stabbed the teenager multiple times and then dismembered her body using chainsaws in his garage.
Details from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office reveal the disturbing circumstances surrounding this case. They allege that Burke met Rivas Hernandez when she was only 11 years old and began abusing her sexually when she turned 13. The tragic end came when the young girl threatened to expose their relationship, leading Burke to act violently.
The court filing states that Burke feared for his music career and believed he had to “silence the victim” before she could reveal their inappropriate relationship. It is alleged that he stabbed her and left her to bleed out in his home.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and other related charges. His lawyers maintain that he is innocent and did not cause Rivas Hernandez’s death.
The body of Rivas Hernandez was discovered decomposing in a Tesla that had been towed from the Hollywood Hills in September of the previous year. Prosecutors have gathered evidence, including text messages that show the nature of their relationship and suggest that Burke may have been involved in child sexual abuse.
The messages reveal that Rivas Hernandez expressed jealousy over Burke’s relationships with other women, and she threatened to disclose details about their relationship that could ruin his career. This situation escalated quickly, leading to the tragic events that unfolded.
The court documents outline the gruesome methods Burke allegedly used to dispose of Rivas Hernandez’s body. Burke is said to have purchased chainsaws online to dismember her body in an inflatable pool found in his garage, where DNA evidence was later discovered.
After allegedly committing these acts, Burke drove to Lake Cachuma in Santa Barbara County to dispose of evidence. Her passport was uncovered there months later, in January.
Rivas Hernandez had braces at the time of her death, and an autopsy revealed that she had suffered multiple penetrating wounds. Tragically, her body had decomposed to the extent that investigators could not even determine her eye color.
Rivas Hernandez’s parents reported her missing in February 2024, and after a brief return home, she went missing again in April. Burke allegedly maintained contact with her through a phone he had paid for a friend to give her, demonstrating an alarming level of manipulation.
After his arrest in April 2024, Burke faced multiple charges, including first-degree murder and lewd acts with a minor. He could face the death penalty, although prosecutors have not yet decided whether to pursue it.
Burke was known for his music career, having gained popularity through platforms like TikTok and Spotify with songs that blended various genres. His rise to fame was rapid, and he performed at major events like Coachella just weeks before the allegations surfaced.
As the legal proceedings continue, the preliminary evidentiary hearing set for May 26 will be crucial in determining whether there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial. This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious issues of abuse and violence that can occur behind the facade of fame.
