David Anthony Burke faces potential death penalty as prosecutors seek to establish probable cause for murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
David Anthony Burke, the indie-pop singer known as D4vd, is facing a preliminary hearing to determine if there is sufficient evidence to take him to trial for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors allege Burke fatally stabbed Hernandez at his Los Angeles residence to prevent her from revealing the sexual nature of their relationship, which threatened his rising career. Evidence presented in court highlights Burke's financial success, with witnesses testifying that his music earned at least $10 million between 2023 and 2025. Prosecutors argue this success provided a financial motive for the killing. Additionally, investigators revealed that Burke purchased a body bag, chainsaws, and a shovel, which he used to dismember Hernandez's body in his garage. Burke has pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder and mutilation of human remains. His defense team maintains that Burke was not the cause of Hernandez’s death. If convicted, the 21-year-old musician could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty.