D4vd to Stand Trial for Alleged Murder of 14-Year-Old Celeste Rivas Hernandez

A Los Angeles judge has ruled that singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, will stand trial for the alleged murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The decision follows a five-day preliminary hearing where prosecutors presented evidence of the crime, which they claim was motivated by Rivas Hernandez's threats to expose their relationship.

Judge Charlaine Olmedo stated that the evidence presented met the necessary threshold for probable cause to proceed with charges of murder, continuous sexual abuse of a minor, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. Burke, 21, has pleaded not guilty to all charges and will remain in custody without bail.

During the hearing, prosecutors detailed the events leading to Rivas Hernandez's death, asserting that she was killed shortly after arriving at Burke's home on April 23, 2025. The prosecution claimed that Rivas Hernandez had sent a final text message indicating her arrival, after which her phone went silent. They allege Burke stabbed her to death when she entered his residence.

Prosecutors also indicated that the two had argued the night before about his relationship with another woman, and Rivas Hernandez had threatened to ruin Burke's career if he did not comply with her demands. The prosecution suggested that Burke had a history of sexual abuse towards Rivas Hernandez, which began when she was 13.

Evidence presented included records of Burke purchasing chain saws and wading pools, which he allegedly used to dismember Rivas Hernandez's body. Her remains were discovered in a Tesla registered to Burke several months later, with DNA evidence linking him to the crime scene.

Defense attorneys, however, argued that the evidence was insufficient to support the murder charge, claiming there was no clear intent to kill and that Rivas Hernandez had made threats towards Burke as well. They pointed to text messages that suggested she had previously threatened him, attempting to establish that the hostility was mutual.

As the case progresses, the prosecution is also considering whether to pursue the death penalty against Burke. His arraignment is scheduled for August 31.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).