LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell walks past an image of Celeste Rivas Hernandez on April 20, 2026, in Los Angeles after a press conference regarding the case of singer D4vd, who was charged on suspicion of killing the 14-year-old girl whose dismembered body was found in his car. DAMIAN DOVARGANES / AP
Singer D4vd was charged Monday, April 20, with the murder and dismemberment of his young teenage girlfriend, whose decomposing corpse was found in a Tesla that had been abandoned in the Hollywood Hills. The 21-year-old, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, faces a possible death penalty over the horrifying death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose body was discovered in September, within days of what would have been her 15th birthday.
"Celeste was just a child, under 14 years old, when David Burke allegedly engaged in repeated lewd and lascivious sexual relations with her," Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman said. "When she threatened to expose his criminal conduct and devastate his musical career, Burke allegedly murdered her, cut up her body and stuffed her body in two bags that were placed in the front trunk of his car."
Hochman said Celeste's mutilated corpse sat rotting for four months until it was discovered. "This horrific and gruesome murder committed by the charged sexual predator is shocking and appalling. To Celeste's loved ones: We will get the justice you seek and deserve," he added.
