A Los Angeles judge has set a trial for U.S. musician D4vd, accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
The decision follows a five‑day preliminary hearing where prosecutors highlighted forensic evidence, CCTV footage, and text‑message exchanges between the victim and the artist. The teenager’s remains were discovered last September in a Tesla linked to D4vd’s address.
D4vd, legally known as David Anthony Burke and 21 years old, pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and sexual abuse. Prosecutors say he stabbed and dismembered the girl after years of alleged sexual contact. They argue he acted to silence a threat that Celeste made to expose his relationship with a minor and to eliminate his multi‑million dollar music career.
Text excerpts revealed in court depict an escalating dispute on 22 April 2025, with the teen vowing lethal retaliation and threatening to ruin the artist’s public image. On 23 April, Celeste allegedly travelled to Burke’s Hollywood home in a ride he had scheduled. Prosecutors assert the artist stabbed her upon arrival.
D4vd’s arraignment is set for 31 August, with a trial expected to start within 90 days of that date. The case underscores the tension between celebrity influence and the justice system, drawing attention from law‑enforcement officials, fans, and advocacy groups.
