In brief
D4vd, a rising pop star, appeared in court accusing him of first-degree murder in connection with the death of teenage girl Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The case has drawn significant media attention following the discovery of her remains in his vehicle. The prosecution claims the murder was motivated by financial gain and to silence a witness. D4vd's legal team maintains his innocence, pledging a vigorous defense.
U.S. musician D4vd has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder in the death of a teenage girl who vanished last year. The star, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, is accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decomposing remains were found in September in a Tesla registered to his Texas address.Burke, 21, also faces charges of murder for financial gain and the murder of a witness to an investigation, according to the Los Angeles district attorney. He did not speak during his arraignment, with lawyers entering the plea on his behalf.In court, Burke's defense team asserted that they believe the actual evidence will show that David did not kill Celeste and did not cause her death. They pledged to vigorously defend his innocence. There was palpable tension in the courtroom as the girl's parents arrived. D4vd's team requested an open hearing amidst months of behind-closed-doors grand jury proceedings, resulting in the court ordering the coroner's report on the teen's death to be unsealed.The Rivas Hernandez family insisted on honoring Celeste's voice throughout the legal process. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed that Rivas Hernandez had visited Burke's home in Hollywood Hills on April 23, 2025, and was reported missing shortly thereafter. The remains—discovered in a Tesla trunk—show signs of dismemberment. Charges include first-degree murder with special circumstances, murder for financial gain, and the murder of a witness, with the potential for the death penalty being pursued. Burke remains in custody without bail, facing a challenging legal battle ahead as the case garners significant public and media scrutiny.
