Trial Consideration for D4vd in Teen’s Stabbing Death
Prosecutors presented forensic evidence as they pressed for a judge to send singer David Burke, known as D4vd, to trial for the alleged murder and dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. During the preliminary hearing, Los Angeles police criminalists recounted gathering samples of possible blood and DNA from Burke’s garage and his Tesla, where the body was eventually found.
Burke, who has pleaded not guilty to murder, sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of a body, is accused of dismembering Hernandez’s body after her death. On Tuesday, authorities referenced purchased items like chainsaws, an inflatable pool, and a shovel that were used in the crime. They allege these items were part of Burke’s plan to kill and dispose of Hernandez’s body.
Testimonies from Forensic Experts
On Wednesday, criminalist Lauren Wallace of the Los Angeles Police Department detailed finding blood stains on rubber mats in Burke’s Hollywood garage. These mats also showed cuts from sharp objects. Prosecutors stated the blood matched Hernandez’s DNA.
Wallace revealed no blood was found on chainsaws in the garage but demonstrated possible unseen stains using a chemical spray, which made them glow blue. Onlookers in the courtroom reacted audibly when photographic evidence showed the mats covered in glowing blue spots. Investigators also found potential blood evidence on garbage bags and cleaning wipes.
Another criminalist, Chelsea Murillo, identified minor stains in Burke’s Tesla. Burke’s defense questioned the evidence collection methods, scrutinizing the handling of vital elements, such as gloves and DNA swabbing outside the vehicle.
Burke’s Motivations and Actions
Prosecutors aim to demonstrate that Burke’s actions were to preserve his career. They allege a sexual relationship began with Hernandez when she was 13. They claim Hernandez threatened to expose him due to jealousy over his other relationships. This reportedly led to her murder.
According to prosecutors, Burke had Hernandez picked up on the night of April 23, 2025, and killed her at his Hollywood home. The body remained in the Tesla for over four months until discovered in September after the car was towed. Detective Joshua Byers testified about the grisly discovery of body parts in the vehicle and corroborated purchases of incriminating items by Burke.
Additional Case Evidence and Background
A separate witness, a California Highway Patrol officer, confirmed finding Hernandez’s passport in a remote area of Santa Barbara County. The timeline reveals Burke visited this location twice, matching data evidence with the passport’s discovery.
Hernandez’s parents have attended all hearings but will not testify. Meanwhile, Burke remains detained without bail, appearing in court in standard jail attire.
Financial records indicate Burke, under the alias D4vd, earned $10 million between 2023 and 2025 from his music. His meteoric rise included viral hits on platforms such as TikTok, Soundcloud, and Spotify, as well as prominent performances, including an opening act for SZA and an appearance at Coachella.