US singer D4vd to stand trial for murder in death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez

US singer David Burke, known as D4vd, is slated to stand trial for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. A Los Angeles judge ruled on Monday, July 27, 2026, that there was sufficient probable cause to proceed with a trial following a five-day preliminary hearing. Burke faces charges including first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a minor under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors presented evidence alleging that Rivas Hernandez was killed on April 23, 2025, after threatening to expose her relationship with Burke and damage his music career. Her dismembered remains were discovered in the front trunk of Burke's impounded Tesla on September 8, 2025. Evidence presented in court included text messages between Burke and Rivas Hernandez, as well as bloodstains matching her DNA found at Burke's residence.

The medical examiner determined the cause of death to be multiple penetrating injuries, with the body showing signs of dismemberment. While Burke remains held without bail, the prosecution is still considering whether to pursue the death penalty in the case.