LOS ANGELES – D4vd, the 21-year-old singer whose real name is David Burke, is currently facing serious charges in a highly publicized case regarding the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a 14-year-old girl from Lake Elsinore, California. His legal team is urging prosecutors to quickly and publicly disclose the evidence against him.
Burke recently appeared in a Los Angeles court, just days after being charged with first-degree murder and entering a not guilty plea. The case took a dark turn when Rivas Hernandez’s dismembered body was discovered in his Tesla in the Hollywood Hills seven months ago.
In a rare legal move, Burke is exercising his right under California law to have a judge review the evidence against him within ten court days of his arraignment—a request that most defendants typically waive to delay proceedings.
Burke’s lead attorney, Blair Berk, stated in court, “We believe the actual evidence will show David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez.” This assertion sets the stage for a potentially contentious trial.
Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman confirmed that the prosecution is prepared to present a substantial amount of evidence, including “40 terabytes” of data collected during the investigation.
An autopsy report released recently revealed that Rivas Hernandez died from two penetrating wounds to the upper body. Additionally, Burke faces charges of lewd acts with a minor under 14 and mutilation of a dead body, with prosecutors alleging he had been sexually abusing her for over a year before her death.
The upcoming hearing is particularly significant as it falls exactly one year after Rivas Hernandez was last seen alive at Burke’s residence.
A secret grand jury had been hearing testimonies in the case, but they had not issued an indictment prior to Burke’s arrest last week. The existence of this grand jury was revealed in a court filing earlier this year.
The defense is eager to have the evidence presented, particularly due to the secret testimony that has been heard. It remains unclear whether the hearing will commence with evidence presentation or if it will serve to schedule further witness testimonies.
Rivas Hernandez’s parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, have publicly expressed their grief, calling their daughter “a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance.” They stated, “We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.”
D4vd gained popularity among younger audiences with his unique blend of indie rock, R&B, and lo-fi pop music. He went viral on TikTok in 2022 with his hit “Romantic Homicide,” reaching No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. Following this success, he released his debut EP “Petals to Thorns” and a follow-up, “The Lost Petals,” earlier this year. His full-length album, “Withered,” was released just two days before the date prosecutors believe Rivas Hernandez was killed.
