US musician D4vd has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who disappeared last year. The decomposed remains of the teenager were discovered in September inside a Tesla registered at Burke's Texas address.
Burke, 21, faces additional charges related to murder for financial gain and murdering a witness. According to the Los Angeles District Attorney's office, the situation escalated when Rivas Hernandez reportedly posed a threat to Burke's music career on the night she went missing.
In a statement, Burke's legal team maintained that evidence will exonerate him, asserting he was not involved in the death of Rivas Hernandez. The DA's office confirmed that he is scheduled for arraignment in downtown Los Angeles.
On April 23, 2025, Rivas Hernandez was last seen at Burke's Hollywood Hills residence, with officials stating she never returned home. District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the case as a parent's worst nightmare.
The charges against Burke include special circumstances, indicating the gravity of the allegations he faces stemming from the alleged murder. The prosecution suggests that Burke might have resorted to violence to safeguard his music career, which Rivas Hernandez allegedly jeopardized.
During a press conference, Hochman highlighted that the case involves numerous sexual acts involving a minor, and emphasized the nature of the crime, suggesting the possibility of pursuing the death penalty, contingent on future developments.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell addressed criticisms regarding the investigation's duration, stressing the focus on securing justice for the victim and the importance of gathering substantial evidence before proceeding with an arrest.
The family of Rivas Hernandez has refrained from public statements since the charges were announced, and investigators are appealing for anyone with additional information about the case to come forward.
Burke, known for his indie-pop hits such as Here With Me and Romantic Homicide, gained popularity through social media. Following the discovery of the remains, he canceled a planned world tour and stepped out of the public eye.
