Alt-Pop Singer D4vd Faces Grave Charges in Teen's Death Case
David Burke, the musician known professionally as D4vd, has been formally charged in Los Angeles County with multiple serious offenses, including murder, sexual abuse of a child, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. The charges stem from the tragic death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a case that has sent shockwaves through the music industry and beyond.
Prosecutors Outline Disturbing Timeline of Allegations
According to court documents and statements from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office, the case has a timeline stretching back to 2023. Prosecutors allege that Burke began what they describe as "continuous sexual abuse" of Rivas Hernandez on September 7, 2023, shortly after she turned 13 years old. Authorities state that the teenager, described as a runaway, was living with Burke in Los Angeles at the time.
Her family had reported her missing from Lake Elsinore on April 5, 2024, following several previous missing person reports. Prosecutors state that Rivas Hernandez was last known to be alive on April 23, 2025. They allege that Burke killed her "on or about" that date because she posed a significant threat to his burgeoning music career.
Musical Success Contrasted with Criminal Allegations
The disturbing allegations unfolded against the backdrop of Burke's rapidly ascending music career. He first gained significant attention in 2022 with his viral TikTok hit 'Romantic Homicide,' which eventually reached No. 4 on Billboard's Hot Rock and Alternative Songs chart. This success led to a recording contract with Darkroom and Interscope Records.
On April 11, 2025, Burke performed at the prestigious Coachella music festival, where he spoke to The Associated Press about his connection with fans, saying, "I am my fans and my fans are me. And we work in tandem with each other and it's such a beautiful poetic kind of thing that we have."
Just two weeks after his Coachella performance, Burke released his debut album titled 'Withered.' Prosecutors later allege that on or around May 5, 2025, Rivas Hernandez's arms and legs were severed from her body in a gruesome act of mutilation.
Discovery of Remains and Legal Proceedings
According to court documents cited by The Associated Press, the teenager's remains were discovered on September 8, 2025, in body bags inside the trunk of an apparently abandoned Tesla vehicle registered in Burke's name. This grim discovery led to a thorough investigation by law enforcement authorities.
Police arrested David Burke on April 16, 2026, and prosecutors formally charged him with the multiple offenses on April 20, 2026. During his arraignment on Monday, Burke's legal representative entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. The case remains active and pending in the court system as legal proceedings continue to unfold.
Broader Context and Important Resources
This case highlights the disturbing intersection of celebrity culture and criminal allegations. While the legal process continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing issues of abuse and violence in society.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, assault, or abuse, please seek immediate assistance. Reach out to a qualified mental health professional, a trusted non-governmental organization, or a reliable individual in your support network. Numerous helplines and resources are available to provide guidance and support during difficult times.
