Singer D4vd Faces First-Degree Murder Charges in Teen's Death
Singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, has been formally charged with first-degree murder in connection with the mysterious disappearance and death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's office announced the charges on Monday, following Burke's arrest last Thursday.
Serious Charges and Potential Penalties
The charges against D4vd include first-degree murder with special circumstances, continuous sexual acts, lewd and lascivious sexual acts with an individual under 14 years old, and mutilating human remains. LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman detailed these charges at a news conference, emphasizing the gravity of the case.
If convicted, D4vd could face a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole or potentially the death penalty. The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the accused and the tragic circumstances surrounding the victim.
Discovery of Celeste's Remains
In September 2025, the decomposed body of Celeste Rivas Hernandez was discovered in the trunk of a Tesla registered to D4vd. At the time of the discovery, the singer was in Minneapolis as part of a world tour promoting his debut album. It took several days for authorities to confirm that the remains were indeed those of the missing teenager.
The timeline of the crime remains unclear, as investigators have not been able to establish exactly when Celeste was killed. What was recovered was only her remains, complicating efforts to determine the precise sequence of events leading to her death.
Background of the Case
The disappearance of Celeste Rivas Hernandez and the possible involvement of D4vd became one of the most followed news stories from Hollywood Hills last year. Reports suggested that the two were believed to be in a relationship, though Celeste was underage at the time of her death.
The case has highlighted concerns about celebrity influence and the vulnerability of minors in such situations. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Celeste's death, with the charges representing a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings.
