Forensic analyst reports possible blood evidence in singer's garage during preliminary hearing

A Los Angeles Police Department forensic analyst testified Wednesday that material consistent with blood was detected on gym-style mats, a rowing machine and a charging plug in the garage of singer David Anthony Burke, who is charged with the stabbing and alleged dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The analyst, criminologist Lauren Wallace, said ultraviolet testing revealed linear stains on the rubber flooring and a trash bag that "likely" contained blood, though she could not definitively confirm the substance was blood.

Wallace also noted that two chainsaws recovered from the garage tested negative for blood, and that a 10-inch Makita chainsaw referenced by prosecutors was not found. The garage also contained an inflatable pool that had been cut in several places, which prosecutors say was used during the alleged disposal of the victim’s remains.

Prosecutors allege Burke, 21, stabbed Hernandez in April and later used a chainsaw to cut her body before placing it in the trunk of his Tesla, where it was discovered months later. They contend the murder was motivated by a desire to protect his music career and avoid financial loss. Burke has pleaded not guilty.

During the hearing, an Interscope Records executive testified that Burke could earn up to $19 million from future record deals and branding contracts, and that the label continued to pay him more than $2 million in 2025 despite the allegations. The preliminary hearing will continue over the next several days, after which a judge will decide whether the case proceeds to trial.