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D4vd murder trial and wrongful death suit in Los Angeles

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2026-09-10 05:30 UTC → 2026-09-11 17:32 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Los Angeles prosecutors are pursuing capital murder charges against indie-pop singer David Anthony Burke (D4vd) for the April 2025 killing and dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernández. Following a five-day preliminary hearing in July 2026, Judge Charlaine Olmedo found probable cause to proceed, citing special circumstances including lying in wait and financial gain. Burke faces capital murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. Prosecutors allege Burke killed Hernández to prevent her from exposing their illicit sexual relationship, which allegedly began in 2023 when Burke was 18 and the victim was 13. Evidence presented includes DNA traces in Burke’s Hollywood Hills home, a blue inflatable pool allegedly used to contain blood, and text messages. The victim’s remains were discovered in the trunk of Burke’s Tesla in September 2025. Following the withdrawal of his high-profile legal team, Burke has transitioned to public defense via the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office. He has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges. In addition to the criminal proceedings, the Rivas Hernández family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Burke and his entourage, including his manager, his mother, and a live-in security guard, alleging they were complicit or aware of the inappropriate relationship. The civil suit also names the management company Mogul Vision as a defendant. The parents, Mercedes Martinez and Jesus Rivas, are seeking damages for wrongful death, false imprisonment, and childhood sexual assault, alleging associates enabled Burke to isolate the minor. The lawsuit further alleges sexual battery and human trafficking. On September 7, 2026, the family reiterated their support for the death penalty, stating execution “would be perfect” if a conviction is secured. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for October 19.

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