Singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, will stand trial for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a Los Angeles judge ruled on Monday. The 21-year-old singer has been charged with murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains.
D4vd Charged with Murder and Child Abuse
Burke has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is being held without bond ahead of his trial. The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office presented evidence during a five-day preliminary hearing, including autopsy photos and explicit descriptions of sexual abuse, to support the charges against Burke.
Prosecutors allege that Burke fatally stabbed Rivas Hernandez, then placed her body in an inflatable pool and used a chainsaw to dismember her. Testimony showed that blood matching the victim's DNA profile was found in the defendant's garage. Burke's lawyer, Marilyn Bednarski, argued that the evidence did not show the kind of malice required for murder.
Key Evidence and Testimony
Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman said the evidence presented was overwhelming, including text messages between Burke and Rivas Hernandez that discussed pregnancy and a future together. Silverman also noted that the communications showed "no threat, no evidence of a history of violence" but argued that Burke's actions constituted grooming and abuse.
The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office said Burke invited Rivas Hernandez to his home in the Hollywood Hills on April 23, 2025, and she was never seen again. The following day, Burke allegedly ordered a shovel, chainsaws, a body bag, and a blue inflatable pool, which were used to dispose of her body.
Next Steps in the Trial
Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman said prosecutors presented only a "small fraction" of the evidence they have, and the death penalty is being considered. The arraignment is scheduled for August 31, and a trial date will be set thereafter. Burke is eligible for the death penalty, and the District Attorney's Office will weigh the evidence and consider submissions from the defense before making a decision.
The family of Rivas Hernandez expressed relief that the preliminary hearing is over and appreciated the hard work of the district attorney's office and LAPD investigators. Patrick Steinfeld, the lawyer representing Rivas Hernandez's parents, said the family was "horrified" by the defense's attempts to blame the victim.
