In brief
Los Angeles judges have ruled that David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, will stand trial for the murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. A preliminary hearing involved witnesses and photographic evidence, and prosecutors allege Burke killed the girl after a threat to expose their relationship. Burke has pleaded not guilty and the arraignment is set for 31 August, with the trial expected within 90 days. The case highlights the intersection of celebrity and criminal justice.
Dissecting the Verdict
A Los Angeles judge inked a ruling that D4vd, legal name David Anthony Burke, will go to trial for the murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The decision followed a five‑day preliminary hearing where prosecutors presented witness testimony and photographic evidence to the family.
Burke, 21, has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and sexual abuse. Prosecutors argue he stabbed Celeste and dismembered her body after years of alleged sexual assault, claiming the teen threatened to expose his relationship with a minor and jeopardise his multimillion‑dollar music career.
Evidence disclosed at the hearing included threatening texts from Celeste dated 22 April 2025, in which she warned Burke that she would “kill u” and “end ur career.” The next day, Celeste travelled to Burke’s Hollywood home via an Uber he had arranged, after which prosecutors say Burke stabbed her.
Burke’s arraignment is scheduled for 31 August, with the trial slated to begin within 90 days thereafter.
