Court Orders Musician d4vd to Go to Trial on Murder, Other Charges After Presentation of Graphic Evidence

David Burke, known professionally as d4vd, is set to stand trial in Los Angeles on charges including first-degree murder, stemming from the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Following a preliminary hearing that lasted five days, a judge ruled that prosecutors had presented sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. Burke, 21, has been held without bail since his arrest in April.

The criminal case revolves around allegations that Burke was involved in a prolonged abusive relationship with Rivas Hernandez, beginning when she was reportedly 11 years old. Prosecutors detailed claims that the relationship escalated to sexual abuse starting when the victim was 13. According to court statements, text messages indicate that Rivas Hernandez became pregnant during this time and later underwent an abortion.

In the days preceding her death, authorities say tensions between Burke and Rivas Hernandez intensified. Reports suggest disputes arose partly due to Burke's involvement with another person, and that the teenager threatened to expose their illicit relationship, potentially damaging Burke’s burgeoning music career.

The prosecution alleges that Burke arranged for Rivas Hernandez to be transported to his residence via a rideshare service, where she was subsequently stabbed to death. Graphic descriptions presented in court included claims that Burke dismembered the victim’s body using a chainsaw, later placing the remains in the trunk of a Tesla registered to him. The vehicle was reportedly driven for weeks or months before being stored at a tow yard, where investigators eventually discovered the remains in September.

Evidence introduced by the prosecution included purchase records for chainsaws and other implements found in Burke’s garage, as well as forensic findings revealing blood matching Rivas Hernandez’s DNA at the scene. Additionally, investigators reportedly recovered disturbing photos from Burke’s phone documenting instances of sexual abuse.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman issued a statement emphasizing the severity of the charges and the weight of evidence presented, underscoring the tragic nature of the victim's death and the impact on her family.

Burke’s defense team challenged the prosecution's case, describing the evidence as insufficient and arguing that there was no clear intent to kill. They contended that the victim had shown hostility toward Burke, including threats of violence, and highlighted a lack of direct witnesses or video confirmation regarding her movements on the night of the murder. The defense also questioned the precision of the medical examiner’s findings, asserting that the cause of death did not definitively establish premeditated murder.

Burke’s rise in the music industry was rapid after his songs, including “Romantic Homicide,” gained viral popularity on TikTok in 2022. This success led to a record deal with Darkroom and Interscope Records and notable performances at events such as Coachella in 2025. He released two EPs in 2023 and his debut album, Withered, shortly after the alleged time of Rivas Hernandez’s death. Following the discovery of the victim’s body and the subsequent investigation, Burke’s record label and commercial partners severed ties, and planned tours were canceled.

An arraignment hearing is scheduled for August, where Burke will respond to formal charges. While the prosecution has not disclosed whether they intend to seek the death penalty, the gravity of the accusations places Burke at risk of facing the most severe sentencing options under California law.

As the case moves toward trial, the music community and public await further developments in a matter that has cast a shadow over the promising career of an emerging artist and brought to light disturbing allegations of abuse and violence.