The criminal case involving singer David Burke, who performs under the stage name D4vd, has moved a step forward after a recent court appearance in Los Angeles. During a status hearing, the court scheduled a preliminary hearing later this month, where prosecutors will be required to present enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial. The case centers on the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
Hearing
David Burke appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom for a status hearing as his criminal case continues through the legal process.
Burke faces charges that include first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a minor under the age of 14, and mutilation of human remains. He has been accused in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
According to courtroom updates reported by Law&Crime’s Jesse Weber and reporter Julia Deng, the judge scheduled Burke’s preliminary hearing for Tuesday, July 21.
At that hearing, prosecutors will be required to present sufficient evidence to establish probable cause for the case to move forward to trial.
Allegations
According to prosecutors, Burke had an unlawful sexual relationship with the victim before her death.
Authorities allege that he persuaded Celeste Rivas Hernandez to visit a Los Angeles rental property on April 23 of last year, where prosecutors claim she was fatally stabbed.
Prosecutors further allege that Burke attempted to conceal the crime to protect his music career. These are allegations presented by the prosecution and have not been proven in court.
Because of the charges and alleged special circumstances, including lying in wait, Burke could face the most severe penalties permitted under California law if convicted.
Evidence
Investigators allege that Burke purchased chainsaws, an inflatable pool, and heavy-duty laundry bags after the victim’s death.
According to investigators, workers later discovered human remains inside a Tesla registered to Burke at a local tow yard on September 8 last year.
Authorities said detectives found a decomposed head and torso inside an insect-infested bag in the vehicle’s front trunk. A separate trash bag reportedly contained additional remains. Investigators also stated that two fingers were missing.
These allegations form part of the prosecution’s case and remain subject to judicial review.
Investigation
The case also prompted an administrative investigation involving the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
According to reports cited during the Law&Crime broadcast, more than a dozen employees were reviewed after allegations that they accessed confidential case files without authorization.
The inquiry followed reports that autopsy information may have been viewed or shared before its official release.
Employee unions stated they expect any investigation to be conducted fairly while protecting victims’ privacy.
Agencies
Jesse Weber also discussed reported disagreements between investigators and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office during the early stages of the case.
According to reports, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division sought to delay the release of certain records while the investigation remained active. Court records were later sealed in November.
Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Ode Akbo reportedly questioned the extended delay, while law enforcement officials maintained that limiting access to investigative records was necessary to protect the integrity of the case.
Autopsy
According to the autopsy findings discussed during the broadcast, Celeste Rivas Hernandez sustained at least two penetrating wounds to the torso.
The report also noted injuries involving the liver, chest, and ribs. Officials stated that advanced decomposition limited their ability to identify additional soft tissue injuries.
Court
Julia Deng reported that Burke appeared in court wearing an orange jail uniform with longer hair and facial hair. She said he appeared alert and greeted the judge.
The judge also signed a new protective order restricting access to certain case materials.
According to the report, both the prosecution and defense have exchanged discovery materials, while the defense requested transcripts from previous grand jury proceedings.
No relatives or friends of either side were present during the hearing.
Next Steps
The preliminary hearing scheduled for July 21 will determine whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence for the criminal case to proceed toward trial.
The defense continues to challenge the prosecution’s case, while procedural issues surrounding the early stages of the investigation remain part of the broader legal process.
As the case moves forward, the allegations against Burke remain unproven unless established in court, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
FAQs
Who is David Burke?
He performs under the stage name D4vd.
Who was the victim?
14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
When is the preliminary hearing?
It is scheduled for Tuesday, July 21.
What charges does Burke face?
Murder, child abuse, and mutilation charges.
Has Burke been convicted?
No. The case remains pending in court.
