Singer D4vd Remains Composed as Detective Details Horrific Discovery in Teen Murder Case

David Burke, a California-based performer known professionally as D4vd, appeared before a Los Angeles judge Tuesday for the opening day of a preliminary hearing in connection with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The hearing, expected to span three to five days, marks a critical procedural step toward a full trial in the case. Burke faces charges including murder, child sexual abuse, and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

Prosecutors allege Burke groomed the victim starting when she was 11 years old and sexually abused her beginning in November 2023 when she was 13. Throughout 2024, Burke allegedly took the girl on trips to Las Vegas, London, and Texas while leading her to believe they had a future together. When she discovered his involvement with other women and threatened to expose their relationship, prosecutors say Burke killed her two days before his debut album was set to release.

A Los Angeles homicide detective testified to the gruesome scene where Rivas Hernandez’s remains were discovered decomposing in the trunk of Burke’s Tesla, abandoned 400 feet from his Hollywood Hills home. Detective Joshua Byers described the condition of the remains, including the presence of insects and decomposition. The victim’s parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, remained in the courtroom gallery throughout the testimony despite being offered the opportunity to leave.

Burke, shackled during the hearing, displayed no visible emotional response to the detective’s account, while Martinez appeared visibly distressed and required support from a courtroom attendee. Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that the decision on whether to pursue capital punishment remains pending. The charges against Burke are eligible for the death penalty, though California currently maintains a moratorium on executions.

Prosecutors have alleged that Burke orchestrated an elaborate cover-up, sending text messages to the victim’s phone asking her location after her death. The morning following the alleged murder, Burke participated in a radio interview about his music, discussing how personal losses could inspire artistic work and mentioning a song titled “Romantic Homicide.” Prosecutors expect to call approximately 10 witnesses throughout the preliminary hearing.