Singer D4vd Faces Court Over Allegations of Murder

In Los Angeles, prosecutors presented blood stains and other forensic evidence to argue that singer D4vd, legally named David Burke, should be tried for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. During the preliminary hearing, criminalists discussed collecting potential blood and DNA samples from Burke’s garage, where dismemberment allegedly occurred, and from his Tesla, where the body was later discovered.

Burke has pleaded not guilty to charges including murder and sexual abuse of a child. His defense denies any involvement in Rivas Hernandez’s death. On the preceding day, authorities suggested Burke had purchased tools such as chainsaws, an inflatable pool, and a shovel for the crime.

Forensic Evidence Presented

Lauren Wallace, a criminalist from the Los Angeles Police Department, testified about discovering blood stains on rubber mats in Burke’s garage. She noted cuts on the mats, consistent with a sharp object. Blood samples from the garage matched Rivas Hernandez’s DNA. Although chainsaws purchased by Burke did not show visible blood, chemical tests indicated potential blood stains on various items in the garage, which reacted with a blue glow under certain conditions.

Additional evidence found on garbage bags, cleaning wipes, and a rowing machine in the garage was highlighted. Smaller but similar blood stains were detected in the Tesla. The defense scrutinized the crime scene procedures. Questions were raised about the handling of evidence and the absence of DNA swabs on the Tesla exterior. Chelsea Murillo, another LAPD criminalist, explained that exterior swabbing was deemed unnecessary.

Prosecution’s Argument and Defense’s Strategy

Prosecutors aim to demonstrate that Burke, an indie-pop artist, killed Rivas Hernandez to safeguard his career. They allege that their relationship, which began when Rivas Hernandez was 13 and Burke was 18, turned volatile. Claims were made about her intention to expose the relationship, which reportedly threatened his career. Burke allegedly arranged for her transportation the night of her death, after which the stabbing took place at his residence.

Testimony revealed that police found a body in September, including a torso and limbs, within the Tesla after it was towed, along with bags presumably used for dismemberment. Burke had allegedly bought a body bag and tools linked to the crime.

Investigators linked Burke to multiple visits to a rural area in Santa Barbara County, where Rivas Hernandez’s passport was eventually found. Her parents have been present during the hearing but are not scheduled to testify.

Financial Considerations and Public Profile

Financial witnesses detailed the earnings Burke accrued under the stage name D4vd. Reports indicate he made $10 million from music activities between 2023 and 2025. He gained popularity on platforms like TikTok and Spotify with tracks like “Romantic Homicide.” Burke released music and toured with notable artists until the body’s discovery.