Singer D4vd Pleads Not Guilty to Murder of 14-Year-Old Celeste Rivas Hernandez

Rising music star D4vd is now at the center of a deeply troubling legal battle, after pleading not guilty to multiple charges linked to the death of a teenage girl.

The 21-year-old artist, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom this week following his arrest. During the hearing, his legal team entered a not guilty plea on his behalf as he remained silent.

Prosecutors allege that Burke is responsible for the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was reported missing last year. Her remains were later discovered in September inside a vehicle registered to an address connected to the singer in Texas.

The case has drawn widespread attention, not only because of Burke’s celebrity status but also due to the serious nature of the charges. According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, the musician is facing multiple counts, including first-degree murder, allegations tied to financial motives, and claims related to silencing a potential witness.

Authorities say the teenager was last seen in April 2025 after visiting Burke’s residence in the Hollywood Hills. Months later, investigators reportedly uncovered her remains in a vehicle, marking a grim turning point in the case.

Speaking on the matter, District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the situation as every parent’s worst fear, emphasizing the gravity of the accusations and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

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Despite the prosecution’s claims, Burke’s defense team has firmly rejected the allegations. In a statement, his attorneys maintained that the evidence will ultimately prove he was not responsible for the teenager’s death, pledging to challenge the charges vigorously in court.

The courtroom atmosphere during the arraignment was tense, with members of the victim’s family present. In a statement, the family expressed their determination to ensure that their daughter’s story remains at the forefront as the legal process unfolds.

Investigators have also addressed questions surrounding the timeline of the case. Officials from the Los Angeles Police Department noted that the condition of the remains and the time lapse between the alleged incident and discovery complicated efforts to determine key details, including the cause of death.

Burke remains in custody without bail as the case progresses. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, with prosecutors indicating that the possibility of the death penalty remains on the table.

The unfolding legal drama marks a stark contrast to the artist’s rapid rise in the music industry. Known for emotionally charged tracks like Here With Me and Romantic Homicide, D4vd built a strong following online before breaking into the mainstream. In recent years, he released his debut project and toured internationally, even sharing stages with major acts.

However, since the investigation intensified, the singer has stepped away from the spotlight, cancelling tour dates and halting public appearances.

As the case moves forward, it continues to raise difficult questions about fame, accountability, and justice, while a grieving family waits for answers in a tragedy that has shocked both the music world and the public at large.