Indie-Pop Artist to Stand Trial in Teen’s Murder Case
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The legal proceedings surrounding the case of David Burke, known by his stage name D4vd, have taken a significant turn as a judge ruled on Monday that there is sufficient evidence to bring him to trial. Burke faces charges related to the murder and dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The case has attracted significant attention due to the allegations that Hernandez had threatened to reveal their relationship, potentially jeopardizing Burke’s burgeoning music career just days before the release of his debut album.
Burke, a 21-year-old indie-pop musician, appeared in court without displaying emotion during the ruling. Judge Charlaine Olmedo stated that the evidence presented during the preliminary hearing provided probable cause for a trial on the charges of murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. These proceedings are a critical phase in the 10-month investigation that began with the discovery of Hernandez’s body in the trunk of Burke’s Tesla in September.
Day of Decision in Court
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Burke has maintained a plea of not guilty. His defense team argued that the evidence supporting the murder charge was insufficient, although they did not contest the other charges. Prosecutors, on the other hand, contended that the evidence was overwhelming. Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman asserted, “Based on the mountains of evidence presented, all of the allegations have been proved way beyond the standard required.”
The prosecution has revealed that they have only shown a fraction of the evidence available. Discussions are ongoing regarding whether to pursue the death penalty, as Burke qualifies based on special circumstances, including lying in wait and killing for financial gain. Judge Olmedo has ordered Burke to be held without bail as the legal process continues, with an arraignment scheduled for August 31.
Details Emerge About Hernandez’s Final Night
In court, prosecutors presented a detailed account of the events leading up to Hernandez’s death. They alleged that on April 23, 2025, Hernandez traveled to Burke’s Hollywood residence after exchanging heated text messages. The final communication from Hernandez was a text indicating her imminent arrival: “girly pop i’m almost there open ur door if ur home.” Upon her arrival, prosecutors claim Burke fatally stabbed her.
The prosecution also provided evidence of a troubled history between Burke and Hernandez, highlighting sexually abusive behavior that began when she was just 13. Additionally, messages between the two revealed discussions about a pregnancy and subsequent abortion. Photographs presented in court depicted Burke and Hernandez together, and evidence showed that Burke had purchased tools allegedly used to dismember her body.
Defense Challenges Murder Evidence
Burke’s defense team contested the murder charge, arguing that there was no proof of premeditated intent to kill Hernandez. Attorney Marilyn Bednarski emphasized that communications between Burke and Hernandez showed “no threat, no evidence of a history of violence,” suggesting that Burke harbored “the opposite of homicidal malice.” The defense pointed to the medical examiner’s ruling of homicide as vague and inconclusive.
Further, the defense highlighted that Hernandez had repeatedly sought to visit Burke before her death, and stressed the mutual knowledge of their relationship by both families. Nonetheless, the prosecution criticized attempts to portray Hernandez negatively, emphasizing her status as a minor.
D4vd’s Rising Music Career
At the time of the incident, D4vd’s career was on the ascent. Known for his unique mix of indie rock, R&B, and lo-fi pop, he gained a substantial following on platforms like TikTok and Spotify, where his song “Romantic Homicide” achieved over a billion streams. In 2024, he performed at Coachella and released his debut album “Withered,” which coincided with the time authorities allege Hernandez was killed.
