Aspiring singer D4vd cleared for trial in death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Los Angeles prosecutors have secured a trial date for David "D4vd" Burke, who is charged with killing and dismembering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in his Tesla.
A Los Angeles judge has cleared a path to trial for David "D4vd" Burke, an aspiring singer accused of killing 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors allege the teenager was found dead and dismembered inside Burke’s Tesla after she allegedly threatened to expose an alleged sexual relationship.
Detective Corey Ferrell testified that text messages between Burke and the victim indicated a pattern of contact, and that Burke allegedly paid a high-school student $1,000 to deliver a new phone to the girl. The defense presented a signed permission slip from the victim’s parents allowing her to travel with Burke and cited a trip to Las Vegas that included the victim’s sister.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the case demonstrates a serious crime, but did not comment on whether the death penalty will be sought. California currently has a moratorium on executions.
According to prosecutors, Burke invited the victim to his Hollywood Hills home on April 23, 2025, after which she was not seen alive. The following day, investigators say Burke made online purchases of items such as a shovel, chainsaws, a body bag and a kiddie-pool. Police later impounded Burke’s Tesla on September 8, 2025, and discovered the victim’s remains inside, with plastic fragments from a pool found among the remains.
Burke is scheduled to appear for an arraignment on August 31.