Los Angeles prosecutors have presented a detailed and disturbing timeline in the case against singer d4vd, alleging his involvement in the 2025 death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The allegations span years of abuse, culminating in accusations of murder and subsequent body disposal.
Allegations of Abuse and Murder
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office alleged that d4vd (David Anthony Burke) was involved in a pattern of abuse beginning when Celeste was 11 and he was 18. Prosecutors further accused him of repeatedly stabbing her and remaining present while she bled out after she threatened to expose their relationship.
- Timeline of Abuse: Allegedly began when Celeste was 11 and he was 18, with sexual abuse occurring when she was 13.
- Date of Alleged Murder: The filing specifies April 22, 2025, the night before the victim was reportedly killed.
- Motive: Prosecutors cited text messages suggesting the victim was jealous of the defendant’s relationships, and that she threatened to disclose damaging information that could end his music career.
Discovery of Remains and Disposal Efforts
Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s body was discovered in d4vd’s Tesla in Los Angeles last September. The autopsy report indicated she died from “multiple penetrating injuries,” including wounds on her chest and abdomen consistent with sharp force trauma.
Prosecutors detailed alleged efforts to conceal the crime, including:
- Body Disposal: The filing claimed d4vd used two chainsaws purchased online to dismember the body in an inflatable pool. Evidence included purchases of a body bag and heavy-duty laundry bags.
- Missing Body Parts: Prosecutors alleged that d4vd amputated her left ring and pinky fingers because the ring finger bore a tattoo of his name; these fingers have not been recovered.
- Forensic Evidence: Small blue plastic fragments found on the remains were reportedly matched by an LAPD expert to the blue inflatable pool used for dismemberment.
Legal Proceedings and Defense
The singer, now 21, was arrested earlier this month and has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges. During the preliminary hearing, d4vd’s attorney, Blair Berk, asserted his client's innocence.
- Defense Strategy: Berk requested the court seal the evidentiary filing, arguing it was “one sided” and “replete with hearsay.” The judge denied this request.
- Timeline of Discovery: Celeste was first reported missing by family and friends in early 2024. She was last seen alive going to d4vd’s home in April 2025.
- Early Interactions: Detectives initially contacted d4vd in February 2024, at which time he allegedly stated he had only met her once and did not know her age.
