Celeste Rivas Hernandez Murder, Death: Court Hears Details in Case Against Singer D4vd

The case surrounding the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has entered a preliminary hearing, marking an important stage in the criminal proceedings against 21-year-old David Anthony Burke, a singer who performs professionally as D4vd. Prosecutors are presenting evidence they contend establishes probable cause for the charges to proceed to trial, while Burke has pleaded not guilty and remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

During the hearing, prosecutors outlined their allegations and presented testimony from investigators regarding the discovery of Celeste’s body in September 2025. According to court testimony, investigators recovered her remains from a Tesla registered to Burke that had been located at a tow yard in the Hollywood area of Los Angeles. Authorities described the condition of the remains as being consistent with an extended period before discovery. Prosecutors further alleged that Celeste was killed and that efforts were made to conceal evidence after her death.

The proceedings have been especially difficult for Celeste’s family, who attended court despite being advised that some of the evidence would be distressing. Following the hearing, family attorney Patrick Steinfeld said Celeste’s parents were devastated by the testimony presented, noting that it was the first time they had heard many of the investigative details in court. He said Celeste’s mother chose to remain in the courtroom to honor and support her daughter despite the emotional impact.

Investigators also testified regarding purchases allegedly made by Burke in the days following Celeste’s death. Prosecutors argued that these purchases are relevant to their theory of the case and presented them as part of the evidence supporting the charges. Additionally, prosecutors introduced photographs of tattoos they allege establish a connection between Burke and Celeste, including one bearing Celeste’s name and another design that investigators say appeared on both individuals.

The preliminary hearing is not intended to determine guilt or innocence. Instead, the court’s role is to decide whether prosecutors have presented sufficient evidence to establish probable cause for the case to proceed to trial. Burke has pleaded not guilty to charges that include murder and sexual abuse, and his defense will have the opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s evidence throughout the legal process.

The hearing has attracted significant public attention, with journalists and observers filling the courtroom as testimony continues. Additional witnesses are expected to testify before the judge decides whether the prosecution has met the legal threshold required to send the case to a jury trial.

As the proceedings continue, Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s family remains focused on seeking justice through the judicial process while awaiting the court’s decision on the next phase of the case.