Full Breakdown
Preliminary Hearing Continues in D4vd Murder Case
7/27/2026, 8:19:07 PM
Background of Alleged Relationship
The case centers on David Anthony Burke, the 21-year-old singer known as D4vd, who is accused of maintaining a sexual relationship with 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez that began when she was 11 and he was 16. Los Angeles Police Department Detective Corey Farell testified that messages from Burke’s iCloud account show the relationship started two months after Hernandez turned 13, and that she obtained an abortion in January 2024. Prosecutors contend the relationship ended when Hernandez threatened to expose it, prompting Burke to kill her.
Evidence Presented at Hearing
Nearly a dozen witnesses have testified so far. LAPD Detective Joshua Byers described discovering Hernandez’s remains in the front trunk of Burke’s Tesla after a foul odor was reported. The trunk contained a partially opened black body bag with the torso and head, while her limbs were found in a separate trash bag. Investigators matched blood found in the vehicle, a garage rubber mat, a charger, a rowing machine, and a blue inflatable pool to Hernandez’s DNA. Autopsy testimony from LA County Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Grant Ho confirmed severe decomposition, dismemberment with power-tool injuries, and two penetrating wounds—one to the chest and one to the abdomen—causing death. Dental records were used to identify the remains.
Legal Charges and Potential Penalties
Burke faces first-degree murder with special circumstances, lewd and lascivious acts with an individual under 14, and mutilating a body. Additional special-circumstance counts allege lying in wait, committing the crime for financial gain, and murdering a witness in an investigation. If convicted, he could receive the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. The district attorney’s office has not indicated whether it will pursue the death penalty.
Next Steps in the Case
The preliminary hearing is scheduled to resume on Monday, where prosecutors will continue to argue that there is sufficient probable cause for trial. The defense has challenged the medical examiner’s independence, noting he had no prior conversations with investigators. The court will determine whether the case proceeds to a full trial.
