US musician D4vd has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder in the death of a teenage girl who vanished last year. The star, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, is accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decomposing remains were found in September in a Tesla registered to his Texas address. Burke, 21, also was charged with murder for 'financial gain' and with the murder of a witness to an investigation, the Los Angeles district attorney said.
He did not speak during his arraignment on Monday – his first court appearance since his arrest last week. His lawyers entered his plea on his behalf. The defense claimed they believed the 'actual evidence will show that David did not kill Celeste' and echoed the sentiments made after his arrest last week. Attorneys representing Burke stated, 'We will vigorously defend David's innocence.'
The court heard accusations that Burke murdered Rivas Hernandez to maintain his music career, which she was allegedly threatening. The prosecution has outlined that the charges involve serious allegations of sexual acts with a minor, potential financial motives, and the horrific discovery of the victim’s dismembered remains.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman shared that Rivas Hernandez went to Burke's house in Hollywood Hills on April 23, 2025, and was never heard from again. The police investigation discovered her remains in a vehicle owned by Burke, presenting a troubling context for the allegations at hand. The media and the public are closely monitoring the developments in this high-profile case, which has raised significant concern regarding the safety of minors and accountability in the entertainment industry.
He did not speak during his arraignment on Monday – his first court appearance since his arrest last week. His lawyers entered his plea on his behalf. The defense claimed they believed the 'actual evidence will show that David did not kill Celeste' and echoed the sentiments made after his arrest last week. Attorneys representing Burke stated, 'We will vigorously defend David's innocence.'
The court heard accusations that Burke murdered Rivas Hernandez to maintain his music career, which she was allegedly threatening. The prosecution has outlined that the charges involve serious allegations of sexual acts with a minor, potential financial motives, and the horrific discovery of the victim’s dismembered remains.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman shared that Rivas Hernandez went to Burke's house in Hollywood Hills on April 23, 2025, and was never heard from again. The police investigation discovered her remains in a vehicle owned by Burke, presenting a troubling context for the allegations at hand. The media and the public are closely monitoring the developments in this high-profile case, which has raised significant concern regarding the safety of minors and accountability in the entertainment industry.
