A Los Angeles judge ruled that the murder case against singer David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd, will proceed to trial following a preliminary hearing where prosecutors presented graphic evidence. Burke, 21, is charged with first-degree murder, sexual abuse of a child, and unlawful mutilation of human remains in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors allege that Burke and Hernandez had a sexual relationship beginning in 2023, when he was 18 and she was 13, and that she threatened to expose their relationship and ruin his career before her death.
Core Facts and Developments
Prosecutors allege that on April 23, 2025, Burke ordered an Uber to bring Hernandez to his Hollywood Hills home, where she was last seen alive. Her dismembered remains were later found in two body bags in the trunk of Burke’s impounded Tesla in September 2025. Her passport was discovered on a rural road in Santa Barbara County in January 2026. Text messages presented in court showed Hernandez threatening Burke’s career and life hours before her death. Burke has pleaded not guilty and denied all wrongdoing through his attorneys.
Deeper Dive and Context
Evidence and Testimony
Prosecutors called a dozen witnesses during the five-day preliminary hearing, including an LAPD detective who testified about years of text messages and phone calls allegedly showing Burke’s sexual abuse of Hernandez. The medical examiner testified that Hernandez was likely stabbed twice before her body was dismembered, allegedly with a chainsaw. Prosecutors alleged that Burke attempted to cover up the crime by dismembering the body and disposing of evidence.
Defense Response
Burke’s defense attorney, Blair Berk, presented text messages showing Hernandez’s threats to Burke, including claims that she would destroy his career and life. The defense argued that Burke’s actions were in response to these threats. Burke covered his face and looked away as graphic photographs of Hernandez’s remains were displayed in court.
Public and Legal Reactions
Outside the courtroom, Burke’s Apple Music profile was hacked, and a fake song titled "I Did It" was briefly uploaded. The incident added to the intense public attention surrounding the case. Criminal defense attorney Lou Shapiro, not involved in the case, noted that the hacking and negative publicity could complicate the defense’s strategy.
Legal Implications
The case has drawn significant international and local interest due to Burke’s status as a rising pop singer. The graphic nature of the evidence and the allegations of a long-term abusive relationship have heightened public scrutiny. The trial is expected to address the legality of the relationship, the validity of the threats, and the circumstances surrounding Hernandez’s death.