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DA Charges David Burke with Murder After Tesla Discovery

4/23/2026

Summary

Hochman Charges Murder

District Attorney Nathan Hochman charged David Anthony Burke with murder after Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s body was found in his Tesla on September 8, 2025.
An autopsy by Dr. Odey Ukpo showed penetrating torso wounds from a sharp instrument.
Burke pleaded not guilty and is held without bail.
His attorney requested a public preliminary hearing within ten days.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said the delay between death and discovery degraded crucial evidence.

Summary

Burke Denies Murder

The autopsy report, released after a judge ordered its release, listed wounds, dismembered limbs, and said time of death was unknown due to changes.
Defense attorney Blair Berk said evidence will prove TikTok star David Burke did not kill Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
Prosecutors allege 14-year-old vanished after visiting David Burke’s Hollywood Hills home in April 2025.
Authorities kept manner of death secret during probe and released it after judge’s order.

Summary

Ukpo Criticizes Delay

Dr Odey Ukpo criticized the months-long delay in releasing the autopsy findings and said he was grateful the information could be shared with the family.
Family attorney Patrick Steinfeld told the BBC the Rivas family was devastated after hearing gruesome details at David Burke’s arraignment.
Parents Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez said Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance and that they only want justice.

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Hochman Charges Murder

District Attorney Nathan Hochman charged David Anthony Burke with murder after Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s body was found in his Tesla on September 8, 2025.
An autopsy by Dr. Odey Ukpo showed penetrating torso wounds from a sharp instrument.
Burke pleaded not guilty and is held without bail.
His attorney requested a public preliminary hearing within ten days.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said the delay between death and discovery degraded crucial evidence.

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