D4vd Pleads Not Guilty in Murder Case Involving Teen Celeste Rivas Hernandez

Singer and songwriter D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, pleaded not guilty in court on Monday to the charge of first-degree murder in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office announced the charges following the discovery of Hernandez’s dismembered body in the trunk of Burke’s abandoned Tesla last September.

According to authorities, the badly decomposed remains of Hernandez were found locked in the front boot of the vehicle, which had been impounded at a lot in California’s Hollywood Hills. At the time of the discovery, Burke, who is 20 years old, was preparing for a display in Minneapolis as part of his first world tour.

Burke’s legal team, including attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter, stated they will vigorously defend his innocence. The case has drawn significant public attention due to Burke’s rise to fame through TikTok, where his song “Romantic Homicide” went viral and propelled him into mainstream music success.

The investigation revealed that Burke and Hernandez had an alleged relationship, with prosecutors alleging that Burke had sex with the 14-year-old, lay in wait, and then killed her. Medical examiner details released in April 2026 confirmed the grim nature of the discovery, emphasizing the violent circumstances surrounding Hernandez’s death.

Burke, a Queens-born artist who later moved to Houston, began making music to avoid copyright strikes on his Fortnite videos. He started recording in his sister’s closet using only his phone and music production apps before gaining traction on TikTok and transitioning to professional studios.

As of April 23, 2026, Burke remains in custody, facing multiple charges including murder. His arraignment was previously delayed due to a bomb threat at the courthouse, which prompted an evacuation. He has remained silent during court appearances and was reportedly transferred to segregation after a sudden jail move.

The case continues to unfold as prosecutors prepare for trial, whereas Burke’s defense team maintains his innocence and pledges to challenge the evidence presented by the state.