D4vd Named as ‘Target’ in Celeste Rivas Hernandez Death Investigation
The investigation into the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has taken a new turn, with musician David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd, now identified as a “target” by investigating officials. The case, which began with Rivas’s disappearance in 2024, reached a grim point in September 2025 when her remains were discovered in the trunk of an abandoned Tesla registered to Burke.
Background of the Case
Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a resident of Lake Elsinore, California, was first reported missing in 2024, marking the third time she had run away in the final year of her life, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office [1]. She last had contact with her family in May 2024. Surveillance footage and digital evidence confirmed she was alive as recently as September 2024 and January 2025 [1].
Discovery of Remains and Initial Findings
On September 8, 2025, authorities discovered Rivas’s body inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla registered to D4vd [1]. The discovery led to the opening of a murder investigation, which remains active as of February 2026, with no criminal charges filed [1].
Unsealed Court Documents Reveal Details
Recent unsealed court documents have shed light on the investigation. Whereas the grand jury’s investigation was initially kept confidential due to California law, an appeal from D4vd’s parents in Texas led to the records being unsealed, as reported by Rolling Stone. These documents indicate that D4vd is being treated as a “target” potentially involved in the murder of Celeste Rivas Hernandez [1].
Family Subpoenas and Graphic Details
D4vd’s father, Dawud Burke, his mother, Colleen Burke, and his brother, Caleb Burke, were subpoenaed to testify on January 15, but are not currently accused of any wrongdoing [1]. The filings also revealed disturbing details about the condition of Rivas’s body.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office report, police discovered a cadaver bag “covered with insects and a strong odour of decay” inside the Tesla. Upon partially unzipping the bag, investigators found “a decomposed head and torso.” A second bag contained the dismembered body parts [1]. Identification of the body took over a week due to the advanced state of decomposition [1].
D4vd’s Response and Current Status
As of February 2026, D4vd has not publicly commented on the ongoing investigation. He did cancel scheduled shows and retained legal counsel with experience representing high-profile clients [1].
About D4vd
David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, is an American singer-songwriter who gained recognition for his songs “Romantic Homicide” and “Here With Me.” In 2025, he released the album Withered and announced a world tour [1].