In brief
The Los Angeles judge ruled that evidence from a preliminary hearing gives probable cause for D4vd’s trial in the murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a young fan whose remains were found in a Tesla linked to the singer’s home. 21‑year‑old D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, has pleaded not guilty but faces charges of murder, sexual abuse and unlawful mutilation. In court, prosecutors presented shocking photos of a dismembered body, text messages threatening the victim and claims that Burke ordered chainsaws and a body bag. With the trial set to begin within ninety days of the next hearing, the case has sparked debate over the fairness of the evidence and the possibility of a death penalty. The case will unfold in a courtroom where the celebrity’s future and reputation hang in the balance.
D4vd, the 21‑year‑old pop star, will go on trial for the murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose body was found in a Tesla tied to his address.
In a five‑day preliminary hearing, prosecutors questioned thirteen witnesses and showed graphic photos of the dismembered corpse to a watching family. The case hinges on text messages where Burke allegedly threatened the teen, claiming she would expose his illegal relationship with a minor and wreck his multi‑million‑dollar career.
The judge ruled there is probable cause, charging Burke with murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under fourteen and unlawful mutilation. He was found to have ordered chainsaws and a body bag online, a claim prosecutors use to suggest he dismembered the body.
Defenders argue the evidence is inconclusive, citing a lack of blood on the chainsaws and no surveillance footage of Burke on the evening of the teen’s disappearance. They also point to texts that show Burke argued but ultimately let the teen into his home, allegedly with consent from her parents.
The trial is set to start within 90 days after the next hearing on August 31. The Los Angeles District Attorney says the prosecution will present all evidence and remains undecided on whether to seek the death penalty.
