Prosecutors Share Updates on the Arrest of Singer D4vd in the Celeste Rivas Hernandez Case
TikTok Star D4vd Arrested in Connection with Teen’s Death
Los Angeles, CA — David Burke, known publicly as D4vd, was arrested on Friday in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Her remains were discovered in the front trunk of an abandoned Tesla linked to Burke, raising significant concerns as the investigation unfolds.
Celeste, who had been reported missing in the spring of 2024, was identified through forensic analysis after her decomposed body was found on September 8, 2025. The vehicle was impounded at a Los Angeles tow yard, following reports from locals about an abandoned car in the Hollywood Hills.
Family members of Celeste Rivas are anticipated to speak at a news conference on Monday alongside police and Los Angeles County prosecutors regarding the case. District Attorney Nathan Hochman and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell will address attendees at the event.
The investigation, which has unfolded over several months, revealed that police believe Celeste likely died in the spring of 2024. Burke was apprehended Thursday at a residence near the renowned Chateau Marmont hotel and subsequently booked into a South Los Angeles jail without bail.
Burke’s defense team has emphasized that he is merely a suspect at this stage. “Let us be clear — the actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not the cause of her death," the attorneys stated. They noted that no indictment had been issued, and no criminal complaint has been filed.
Celeste was last seen on April 5, 2024, in the Lake Elsinore area, where she was known to have connections to D4vd. Following her disappearance, her decomposed remains were found inside the Tesla, which had been parked for over a month before it was reported abandoned.
Workers at the tow yard alerted authorities to a strong odor emanating from the car, prompting police to open the front trunk, where they located her remains in two cadaver bags.
The details surrounding Celeste’s disappearance remain largely unclear. Following the discovery of her body, the LA County Medical Examiner’s office indicated that Celeste’s cause of death was still undetermined. This information, previously available, was removed in November due to the ongoing investigation.
Burke’s career took off through TikTok, where he gained a following of 3.8 million users. He gained further recognition after signing with Darkroom and Interscope Records following the release of his viral hits.
As the investigation continues, authorities suggest that more than one individual may have been involved in Celeste’s death and the subsequent concealment of her body. Burke is expected to appear in court on Monday as the legal proceedings advance.
