Singer d4vd Charged With First-Degree Murder in ‘Horrific’ Death of 14-Year-Old
The music industry is reeling following the arrest of American singer-songwriter David Anthony Burke, known professionally as d4vd. The 21-year-old artist, famous for the hit Romantic Homicide
, now faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the brutal death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges on Monday, April 20, 2026, describing the crime as brutal and horrific
. The case involves allegations of premeditated murder, sexual abuse of a minor, and the dismemberment of the victim’s body.
Timeline of the Investigation
The investigation began after the remains of Celeste Rivas Hernandez were discovered on September 8, 2025. Her decomposed and dismembered body was found inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla registered to Burke in a Hollywood impound lot. Rivas had been reported missing from her home in Lake Elsinore, California, nearly a year prior.
According to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, the murder is alleged to have occurred on April 23, 2025. This date was just two days before the release of d4vd’s debut album, Withered. Prosecutors allege that the killing was a calculated move to protect Burke’s rising music career after Rivas threatened to expose an underage sexual relationship between the two.
Details of the Alleged Crimes
Court documents and prosecutorial statements detail a series of disturbing steps taken by Burke to conceal the crime. Prosecutors allege that Burke engaged in a premeditated scheme that included:
- Sexual Abuse: Burke is charged with lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14 years of age.
- Dismemberment: To dispose of the evidence, prosecutors say Burke purchased chainsaws and a body bag online to dismember Rivas’ body.
- Concealment: The remains were hidden in his vehicle, which eventually ended up in an impound lot.
Burke was arrested by Los Angeles police officers at a home in the Hollywood Hills around 5 p.m. On Thursday, April 16, 2026, following a months-long investigation by the LAPD and a Los Angeles County grand jury.
Key Case Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendant | David Anthony Burke (d4vd), 21 |
| Victim | Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14 |
| Primary Charges | First-degree murder, mutilation of human remains, sexual abuse of a child |
| Date of Alleged Murder | April 23, 2025 |
| Date of Discovery | September 8, 2025 |
| Arrest Date | April 16, 2026 |
Community Impact and Legal Proceedings
The revelation has sparked outrage and grief. A makeshift memorial featuring flowers, candles, and stuffed toys has been established near Jamieson Street in Lake Elsinore to honor the memory of Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
The case is currently moving through the Los Angeles County court system. If convicted of first-degree murder, Burke faces a potential sentence of life in prison. Legal representatives for the singer have not yet released a formal statement regarding the specific evidence presented by the District Attorney.
- Singer d4vd (David Burke) is charged with the first-degree murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
- Prosecutors allege the murder was intended to hide a sexual relationship and protect Burke’s career.
- The victim’s dismembered remains were found in an impounded Tesla in September 2025.
- Burke allegedly used chainsaws and a body bag bought online to dispose of the remains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is d4vd?
d4vd is a 21-year-old American singer-songwriter known for the viral hit Romantic Homicide
and his debut album Withered.
How was the victim found?
Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s remains were discovered in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to David Burke while the car was in a Hollywood impound lot.
What is the current status of the case?
David Burke has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and sexual abuse as of April 2026; the case is currently under judicial review in Los Angeles County.