Alt-pop singer D4vd—real name David Anthony Burke—has been formally charged with first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with a minor, and dismemberment in the killing of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14, of Lake Elsinore, California. The case dominated entertainment headlines from April 28–30, 2026, and has sent shockwaves through the music world.
Who Is D4vd?
Burke, 21, rose to fame after home-recorded bedroom-pop tracks went viral on TikTok while he was a teenager, earning millions of streams and a devoted fanbase. His album Withered received considerable critical attention before his arrest ended his career.
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What Prosecutors Allege
According to court documents filed by Los Angeles prosecutors, Burke first encountered Celeste when she was 11 and began sexually abusing her at 13. He allegedly ordered an Uber to bring her from her family's home to his Hollywood Hills residence on April 23, 2025.
Once there, prosecutors allege he stabbed her to death. The following day, he ordered a shovel via Postmates and purchased two chainsaws through Amazon, then dismembered her body in an inflatable pool in his garage before driving her remains to Santa Barbara County. Her body was found in pieces inside two bags in the trunk of a Tesla SUV registered in his name.
The Autopsy and Evidence
The LA County Medical Examiner's autopsy confirmed Celeste died from multiple penetrating injuries consistent with sharp force trauma. Two fingers were severed from her left hand—prosecutors allege Burke removed them because one bore a tattoo of his name. DNA was recovered from the garage. Text messages documented grooming behavior going back years.
Industry Fallout
Following his arraignment on April 20, Epic Games offered immediate refunds for all D4vd-related Fortnite cosmetics. His tour had continued briefly after initial news before being canceled. Streaming platforms reviewed his catalog presence.
Preliminary Hearing
A five-day preliminary hearing resembling a condensed trial was scheduled to begin May 26. A judge will then decide whether the case proceeds to full criminal trial. Burke's defense has maintained his innocence.
The case prompted urgent calls from child safety advocates for stronger protections for minors in digital music communities. If you have information relevant to child safety issues, contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.
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