Singer D4vd’s Parents Knew of Relationship Before Teen’s Dismemberment, Testimony Reveals

The parents of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the 14-year-old girl whose dismembered remains were discovered in a Tesla owned by aspiring singer David “D4vd” Burke, were aware of their daughter’s relationship with the accused killer, according to testimony presented in court. Prosecutors stated that Celeste’s parents took measures to separate the pair, including confiscating her phone and contacting the police when she ran away from home. At one point, Burke allegedly offered a high school student $1,000 to deliver a new phone to Celeste, according to prosecution claims.

Preliminary Hearing Uncovers Damning Evidence

Los Angeles Police Department Detective Corey Ferrel presented text message evidence on Monday as the week-long preliminary hearing for Burke approached its conclusion. The messages, described as damning by prosecutors, shed light on the nature of the relationship between Burke and Celeste. The hearing aimed to determine if there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.

Defense Claims Parental Consent for Travel

However, Burke’s defense team presented a different narrative, suggesting that Celeste’s family had, in fact, consented to some aspects of their interactions. They introduced a permission slip, purportedly signed by Celeste’s parents, authorizing her to travel to London with Burke. Further bolstering this point, reports indicate that Celeste’s sister accompanied her and Burke on a trip to Las Vegas. During communications with Burke, Celeste reportedly misrepresented her age, stating she was 16 and later 18 years old.

Path to Trial Cleared for Accused Singer

Ultimately, the judge found that the prosecution had presented a strong enough case to move forward, clearing the path for Burke to stand trial. If convicted, Burke could face the death penalty. However, it is important to note that California currently has a moratorium on capital punishment, meaning executions are not being carried out. Prosecutors have not yet announced whether they will seek the death penalty in this case.

Allegations of Threats and Fear of Exposure

Prosecutors contend that Burke is accused of killing Celeste just two days prior to the release of his debut album. The motive, according to the prosecution, stemmed from Celeste’s alleged threats to expose Burke as a child molester after he reportedly began shifting his attention to other young females. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated, “D4vd allegedly squandered his fame and fortune by brutally killing a young girl because he feared their illicit sexual relationship would ruin his aspiring career.” He added, “The only headlines that will accompany his stage name from here forward will be about the vicious murder of a young girl.”

Timeline of Events Leading to Discovery

According to the prosecution’s account, Burke invited Celeste to his Hollywood Hills residence on April 23, 2025. She was dropped off by an Uber and was not seen alive again. The following morning, Burke participated in a radio interview to discuss his upcoming album. Subsequently, prosecutors allege that Burke made a series of suspicious online purchases, including a shovel, three chainsaws, a body bag, and a blue kiddie pool. Some of these items were reportedly purchased using an alias, as indicated by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.

The Crime Scene and Discovery of Remains

Prosecutors believe Burke fatally stabbed Celeste shortly after her arrival. They allege he then dismembered her body using a chainsaw in a kiddie pool located in his garage. Investigators reportedly discovered DNA evidence consistent with the victim within this pool. The grim discovery of Celeste’s decomposing remains occurred on September 8, 2025, when Burke’s abandoned Tesla was impounded. Fragments of the plastic pool were found embedded in her remains, according to prosecutors.

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

David “D4vd” Burke is scheduled to appear in court again on August 31 for an arraignment hearing. The case continues to unfold, with significant testimony and evidence being presented as it moves toward a trial.