Singer D4vd Charged with First-Degree Murder in Death of 14-Year-Old Girl

Singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced the charges on Monday, following a months-long investigation into the case.

Rivas Hernandez was reported missing in 2024. Her dismembered and decomposed body was discovered in September 2025 inside the trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke, which had been impounded after being found abandoned in Hollywood. The vehicle had been at the impound lot for two days before the discovery was made.

The charges against Burke include special circumstances alleging that he committed the crime for financial gain and to silence a witness. Prosecutors allege that Burke killed Rivas Hernandez to protect his music career after she threatened to expose their alleged sexual relationship. The charges also include allegations of lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14 and mutilation of a body.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that the case includes special circumstances of lying in wait and financial gain, making Burke eligible for life without parole or the death penalty. Hochman said his office will decide later whether to seek the death penalty.

Burke was arrested last week at a home in Hollywood and is being held without bail. He pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment on Monday. His attorneys have maintained his innocence, stating, "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."

Rivas Hernandez's family has expressed their grief and commitment to seeking justice. An attorney for the family, Patrick Steinfeld, stated, "The Rivas Hernandez family is committed to ensuring that Celeste's voice is heard and her memory is honored throughout this process."

The investigation into Rivas Hernandez's death began after her body was discovered in Burke's vehicle. Authorities allege that she was last seen alive on April 23, 2025, when she arrived at Burke's Hollywood Hills home. She was never heard from again. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has determined the cause of death, but the findings remain sealed.

Burke, known for his viral hit "Romantic Homicide," had been on his "Withered" world tour when Rivas Hernandez's body was discovered. Following the discovery, the final shows of the tour were canceled. Burke's parents have expressed their support for him, stating they are "not surprised but are terribly disappointed that the District Attorney chose to charge David. Nevertheless, they support and stand by him one hundred percent."

The case is ongoing, with prosecutors continuing to gather evidence. Hochman stated, "There is physical evidence, and there is forensic and digital evidence, that we intend to present in court to prove these charges beyond a reasonable doubt."