Judge Finds Probable Cause to Try Singer D4vd in Teen's Murder

Los Angeles Judge Charlaine Olmedo said the evidence presented at a five-day preliminary hearing met the probable-cause standard, allowing the case against 21-year-old singer David Burke, who performs as D4vd, to proceed. Burke faces charges of murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains, and will remain in custody without bail.

Prosecutors argued that the teen threatened to expose their relationship, prompting Burke to stab her after she arrived at his Hollywood home on April 23, 2025. They said DNA evidence linked her blood to stains found in Burke’s garage, where investigators allege he used chain saws to dismember the body. The victim’s remains were later discovered in a Tesla registered to Burke.

"Based on the mountains of evidence presented, all of the allegations have been proved way beyond the standard required," Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman said.

Burke has pleaded not guilty and did not react when the ruling was read. His attorney Marilyn Bednarski contended that the prosecution has not shown intent to kill, describing the medical examiner’s findings as vague and asserting that the communications between Burke and the victim do not demonstrate homicidal malice.

Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman indicated that prosecutors are still deciding whether to seek the death penalty, and Burke is scheduled for arraignment on Aug. 31.

The hearing also covered allegations that Burke began a sexual relationship with the victim when she was 11, sexually abused her at 13, and that she had previously threatened to reveal the abuse. Defense lawyers declined further comment.