Singer D4vd charged with first-degree murder in Los Angeles case

US authorities have charged singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, according to officials in Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Police Department said Burke was arrested on April 16 and is currently being held without bail. Four days later, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office formally filed murder charges, including special circumstances allegations such as lying in wait, murder for financial gain, and killing a potential witness.

Prosecutors allege that the victim was killed in April 2025 while Burke was under investigation for alleged sexual misconduct involving the minor. District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that the killing was carried out to protect the singer’s career. Authorities also allege that the victim’s body was later dismembered.

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The case began unfolding in September 2025 when police responded to reports of a foul odor coming from an impounded Tesla parked in Los Angeles. Investigators discovered human remains in the vehicle’s trunk, later identified as Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner listed her date of death as September 8, 2025, although the official cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

Investigators believe the body had been inside the vehicle for several days before discovery. Hernandez had been reported missing in April 2024 from Lake Elsinore, and her identity was confirmed more than a week after the remains were found.

Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. The case remains under active investigation as prosecutors prepare for upcoming court proceedings.