Singer and TikTok star D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, was ordered to stand trial in the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez after a five-day preliminary hearing. Prosecutors presented evidence, including text exchanges between Burke and Celeste, to convince a judge that Burke should go before a jury on first-degree murder and other charges.

Background

Celeste’s dismembered and decomposing remains were found in Burke’s abandoned Tesla at a tow yard. The medical examiner explained that Celeste was the victim of a homicide likely caused by sharp force injuries to her chest and abdomen. Burke was charged with capital murder, including special circumstance allegations of lying in wait, murder for financial gain, and killing a witness in a criminal investigation.

Prosecutors argued that Burke’s alleged concealment and dismemberment of Celeste’s remains, disposal of evidence, and other actions demonstrated planning, supporting charges of first-degree murder and other crimes. The motive, prosecutors argued, was tied to protecting his music career and preventing a sexual relationship with a minor from coming to light.

Investigation and Trial

A detective with the Los Angeles Police Department testified about text messages and sexually explicit images found on Burke’s phone, which showed him with Celeste when he was 18 and 19 years old and she was 13. The detective also described a notarized child consent form that revealed Celeste’s parents allowed her to visit London with Burke in 2024.

Defense attorneys argued that the text messages suggested it was Celeste who demanded to see Burke the night of her death, and that the prosecution’s case relied almost entirely on circumstantial evidence. However, prosecutors argued that they met the probable-cause standard and that Burke’s actions demonstrated planning and premeditation.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.