Singer D4vd to Appear in Court Following Charges in Celeste Rivas Hernandez Case
Singer D4vd Charged with First-Degree Murder in Celeste Rivas Case
Singer D4vd has been charged with first-degree murder and other crimes in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas, who was reported missing in the spring of 2024. The Lake Elsinore girl’s decomposed body was discovered on September 8, 2025, inside the front trunk of a Tesla impounded at a tow yard in Los Angeles.
Celeste was last seen in April 2024 in Riverside County. Police indicated that her death likely occurred in the spring of that year. The Tesla, registered to D4vd, was reported abandoned in the Hollywood Hills, where it had remained parked for over a month, according to neighbors. The vehicle was impounded after workers at the tow yard reported a strong odor emanating from it.
The medical examiner’s office determined that Celeste’s cause of death was multiple penetrating injuries, attributed to an object or objects. D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, was arrested on April 16 following an investigation that began after the discovery of the body.
During his initial court appearance, Burke pleaded not guilty to the charges. He faces additional counts including continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains. The special circumstances allegations associated with the murder charge could potentially lead to increased sentencing penalties.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed that Celeste visited Burke’s Hollywood Hills residence shortly before her disappearance, but she was never heard from again after April 23, 2025. Hochman noted that Burke’s motivations were tied to his music career, suggesting that Celeste threatened that endeavor as a key witness in the investigation.
“If convicted, Burke could face life in prison without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty,” Hochman stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges. Burke’s attorneys released a statement asserting his innocence, claiming the evidence will prove he did not cause Celeste’s death.
Celeste’s family expressed gratitude toward law enforcement for their efforts in the case. In a statement, her parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, thanked the Los Angeles Police Department and the community for their support during this difficult time.
Burke, who gained popularity through viral hits on platforms like TikTok, is currently on a world tour. He recently released his debut album, “Withered.” As the case unfolds, further investigations are focused on any additional individuals that may have been involved in Celeste’s death.
