US musician D4vd has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of a teenage girl who vanished last year, officials say. The star, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, is accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decomposing remains were found in September in a Tesla registered to his Texas address.
Burke, 21, also faces charges for 'murder for financial gain' and with murdering a witness to an investigation, as confirmed by the Los Angeles District Attorney. His attorneys argue that evidence will demonstrate Burke's innocence in this tragic case.
The Los Angeles County DA's office announced that D4vd is scheduled for arraignment and expressed an inability to comment on grand jury investigations. On April 23, 2025, Rivas Hernandez reportedly visited Burke's home in the Hollywood Hills and subsequently disappeared. Her dismembered remains were discovered in a Tesla in September, marking the beginning of a critical investigation.
Los Angeles County DA Nathan Hochman described it as a parent's nightmare, citing the anguish of a parent whose child goes missing. The statement revealed that Burke has three murder charges against him, including special circumstances of 'lying in wait' and murder motivated by financial gain, suggesting the victim posed a threat to his career.
The nature of the charges indicates numerous alleged sexual acts with a minor and body mutilation, with the potential for the prosecution to seek the death penalty. Law enforcement officials have faced criticism for delays in the investigation and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Rivas Hernandez's family has yet to make public statements regarding the ongoing proceedings. D4vd, known for hits like 'Here With Me' and 'Romantic Homicide', was placed in custody without bail following his arrest last week. Concert engagements have been canceled as he navigates the serious legal challenges ahead.
Burke, 21, also faces charges for 'murder for financial gain' and with murdering a witness to an investigation, as confirmed by the Los Angeles District Attorney. His attorneys argue that evidence will demonstrate Burke's innocence in this tragic case.
The Los Angeles County DA's office announced that D4vd is scheduled for arraignment and expressed an inability to comment on grand jury investigations. On April 23, 2025, Rivas Hernandez reportedly visited Burke's home in the Hollywood Hills and subsequently disappeared. Her dismembered remains were discovered in a Tesla in September, marking the beginning of a critical investigation.
Los Angeles County DA Nathan Hochman described it as a parent's nightmare, citing the anguish of a parent whose child goes missing. The statement revealed that Burke has three murder charges against him, including special circumstances of 'lying in wait' and murder motivated by financial gain, suggesting the victim posed a threat to his career.
The nature of the charges indicates numerous alleged sexual acts with a minor and body mutilation, with the potential for the prosecution to seek the death penalty. Law enforcement officials have faced criticism for delays in the investigation and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Rivas Hernandez's family has yet to make public statements regarding the ongoing proceedings. D4vd, known for hits like 'Here With Me' and 'Romantic Homicide', was placed in custody without bail following his arrest last week. Concert engagements have been canceled as he navigates the serious legal challenges ahead.
