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Judge Finds Probable Cause in Tesla Murder, Abuse Case

7/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Judge Charlaine Olmedo found probable cause to try David Burke, 21, for murder, child sexual abuse and unlawful mutilation.
The case involves 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s dismembered body found in Burke’s Tesla trunk in September, with autopsy photos, a threatening text and garage DNA evidence presented.
Olmedo ordered Burke held without bail, scheduled an August arraignment and noted that special circumstances could permit a death-penalty sentence.

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Story summary

Judge Charlaine Olmedo found probable cause to try David Burke, 21, for murder, child sexual abuse and unlawful mutilation.
The case involves 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s dismembered body found in Burke’s Tesla trunk in September, with autopsy photos, a threatening text and garage DNA evidence presented.
Olmedo ordered Burke held without bail, scheduled an August arraignment and noted that special circumstances could permit a death-penalty sentence.