Singer D4vd faces preliminary hearing in California murder case

David Anthony Burke, known as the indie‑pop singer D4vd, is on trial in Los Angeles on charges of first‑degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and mutilation of human remains. Prosecutors allege he killed 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez in April 2025, dismembered her body in his Hollywood Hills home, and concealed the remains in the trunk of his Tesla, where they were discovered in September 2025.

Forensic testimony has highlighted blood‑stained floor mats, DNA matches to the teen, eleven air fresheners found throughout the car, fragments of an inflatable pool, and chain saws recovered from the garage. The defense questioned why additional DNA testing was not performed on those items.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized a financial motive, noting Burke earned more than $10 million from record deals and touring and that the teenager’s alleged threat to expose their relationship could have jeopardized his career. A judge will decide whether the evidence is sufficient to send the case to a full trial.