D4vd Charged with Murder in Teen’s Death

Breakout alt-pop artist D4vd is now facing extremely serious charges. Prosecutors in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office have formally charged David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

The allegations stem from the discovery of the teen’s remains inside a Tesla registered in Burke’s name. The grim finding has sent shockwaves through the music community and beyond.

Grim Discovery in Hollywood Hills

The investigation began on September 8, 2024, when authorities discovered partial human remains inside a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The vehicle had been towed from an upscale Hollywood Hills neighborhood after appearing abandoned. Investigators reported a strong odor of decomposition emanating from a cadaver bag within the car, which contained dismembered body parts.

While officials have not yet publicly released the official cause of death, a court order is in place that seals the details from the autopsy. This adds to the mystery surrounding the tragic events.

Timeline and Family Reactions

Celeste Rivas Hernandez was reported missing by her family in 2024 from Lake Elsinore, California. She was 13 at the time of her disappearance and 14 at the time of her passing. David Burke was not publicly named as a suspect until his arrest, though court records indicate he had been under investigation by a grand jury for months.

Celeste’s father, Jesus Rivas, expressed relief following Burke’s arrest, stating, “Thank God … justice for Celeste.” He provided this statement through the family’s attorney, Patrick Steinfeld.

Defense Denies Allegations

Attorneys representing D4vd have vehemently denied the charges. “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,” his legal team stated. They have pledged to “vigorously defend” his innocence.

The case has had a significant impact on D4vd’s career. After rising to fame with his viral hit “Romantic Homicide” in 2022, he was in the midst of his North American tour when reports of his potential involvement surfaced. He subsequently canceled the remainder of his tour dates, including a planned European tour.

As the case moves forward, prosecutors are expected to proceed with formal court hearings while Burke’s defense team prepares its strategy. The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez has not issued further public statements beyond their initial remark.