Full Breakdown
Family Seeks Death Penalty as Los Angeles DA Weighs Capital Punishment for Singer D4vd
9/7/2026, 6:09:42 AM
The Case Against David Anthony Burke
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has charged 21-year-old musician David Anthony Burke—known professionally as D4vd—with first-degree murder, special-circumstance enhancements, lewd acts with a minor, and mutilating human remains. Prosecutors allege Burke fatally stabbed 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez after she threatened to expose their illegal sexual relationship. Her dismembered remains were discovered in the trunk of Burke’s Tesla in a Hollywood tow yard in September 2025. The case proceeds to trial after a judge found sufficient evidence on July 27.
Legal Context and Prosecutorial Policy
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman recently rescinded the prior administration’s categorical ban on seeking the death penalty. He announced a new “murder with special circumstances” policy that permits capital prosecution only after an extensive review and in “exceedingly rare cases.” The policy change was outlined on July 21, 2026, and Hochman indicated he will consider a mitigation packet from Burke’s former counsel before deciding whether to pursue death or life imprisonment.
Family’s Call for Capital Punishment
On the eve of what would have been Celeste’s 16th birthday in early September, her parents released a statement to the California Post urging that the death penalty be applied. The family’s attorney, Patrick Steinfeld, later told reporters the family felt “relieved” that the case had moved to trial.
Official Statements from the District Attorney
At a post-preliminary arraignment on August 31, 2026, Hochman said he had not yet decided whether to seek the death penalty. He emphasized that victim families would receive “consultation” and “full input” to ensure any punishment pursued is “just, fair, fitting and appropriate.” He also noted that he had not received a mitigation packet from Burke’s previous legal team but would allow the new public defender time to submit one.
Timeline of Key Developments
- April 23, 2025: Prosecutors say Burke ordered an Uber to transport Rivas from Lake Elsinore to his Hollywood Hills home.
- April 30, 2026: Alleged location of the homicide in the Hollywood Hills.
- May 5, 2026: Court documents allege Burke ordered chainsaws, a body bag, laundry bags and an inflatable pool.
- April 20, 2026: Burke arrested and arraigned; family and attorney attend courthouse.
- July 27, 2026: Judge moves case to trial.
- July 21, 2026 (scheduled): Hochman’s policy reversal announced.
- August 31, 2026: Hochman reiterates pending decision on capital punishment.
The outcome will hinge on Hochman’s review of mitigation materials and the family’s input under the newly adopted prosecutorial framework.
