In a shocking development that intertwines the worlds of music and crime, a Los Angeles judge has determined there is sufficient evidence to bring indie-pop artist D4vd to trial. The charges revolve around the gruesome murder and dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a case that has sent ripples through both the legal and entertainment communities.
The Case Against David Burke
David Burke, known in the music world as D4vd, is facing serious allegations. Judge Charlaine Olmedo found probable cause to charge him with murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and the unlawful mutilation of human remains. The courtroom was gripped by horror as explicit evidence was presented over five days, including graphic autopsy photos and disturbing text exchanges.
The case against Burke began unraveling when Hernandez’s remains were discovered in the trunk of his Tesla. The vehicle was found abandoned in the Hollywood Hills while Burke was on tour, marking a significant escalation in the investigation that had been ongoing for 10 months.
Courtroom Developments
Throughout the proceedings, Burke displayed no visible emotion, maintaining a calm demeanor as he absorbed the judge’s ruling. His defense team has entered a not guilty plea, challenging the sufficiency of the murder evidence while remaining silent on the other charges.
Prosecutors, led by Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman, assert that the evidence is overwhelming. “Based on the mountains of evidence presented,” Silverman stated, “all of the allegations have been proved way beyond the standard required.” The prosecution has only revealed a fraction of their evidence, leaving the door open to potentially seek the death penalty.
The Final Hours of Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Prosecutors offered a detailed account of Hernandez’s last night, revealing that she had arrived at Burke’s Hollywood home via an Uber he arranged. Her final text message read, “girly pop i’m almost there open ur door if ur home.” The prosecution alleges that Burke, 21, fatally stabbed her upon her arrival.
The relationship between Burke and Hernandez began when she was just 11, with allegations of sexual abuse starting at age 13. Texts between the two revealed a tumultuous relationship, including discussions of a pregnancy and subsequent abortion. Prosecutors presented intimate photographs of the pair, including one showing Hernandez with “David” tattooed on her finger, which was severed during the crime.
Defense Strategy
The defense argues that the evidence does not demonstrate premeditated murder. Attorney Marilyn Bednarski contends there is “no evidence that Mr. Burke harbored a deliberate intent to kill Miss Hernandez.” The defense highlighted the lack of violent history in their communications and challenged the medical examiner’s homicide ruling as vague.
The defense also pointed out that both families were aware of the relationship, with Hernandez’s parents even consenting to a trip she took with Burke to London. Despite these assertions, the prosecution criticized attempts to shift blame onto the young victim.
D4vd’s Rising Career
Before these allegations, D4vd was experiencing a meteoric rise in the music industry. Known for his indie rock and lo-fi pop fusion, he gained significant traction on platforms like TikTok and Spotify. His breakout hit “Romantic Homicide” amassed over a billion plays, and he performed at Coachella in 2024. His debut album, “Withered,” was released just days after the alleged murder.
