Los Angeles prosecutors have charged musician David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, with the first-degree murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
Charges Filed Against D4vd
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced Monday charges against David Anthony Burke, also known as D4vd, in connection with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste.
The charges include first-degree murder with special circumstances, alleging the crime was financially motivated and involved the killing of a witness.
Motive and Circumstances
Prosecutors allege Burke killed Celeste out of fear she would reveal information about “sexual acts committed by Burke when she was under 14 years old.”
Celeste visited the artist’s Hollywood Hills home at his invitation on April 23 of last year.
Discovery of Remains
In September, Celeste’s “dismembered and decomposed remains were found in two duffel bags inside the front trunk” of a vehicle registered to David Burke.
Potential Sentencing
Burke faces a potential sentence of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet decided whether to seek the latter.
Artist’s Background
D4vd is a 21-year-old alt-pop singer from Houston who gained popularity with his song “Romantic Homicide” and subsequent indie rock, R&B, and lo-fi pop releases.
His debut album, “Withered,” reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, and his songs have garnered hundreds of millions of views on YouTube.
Defense Statement
D4vd’s attorneys stated, “The actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and did not contribute to her death.”
He is currently being held without bail.
