Prosecutors aimed to convince a judge that singer D4vd should stand trial for the stabbing death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14. On the second day of the preliminary hearing, Los Angeles police experts testified about forensic evidence collected from locations linked to David Burke, D4vd’s real name.
The prosecution alleges Burke dismembered Rivas Hernandez’s body in his garage and later stored it in his Tesla. Burke has denied charges of murder, child sexual abuse, and mutilation. His defense claims he is not responsible for her death.
Details of Forensic Evidence
The police collected DNA and potential blood samples from Burke’s garage and vehicle. Prosecutors argue this evidence proves Burke’s involvement in the crime. Lauren Wallace, a police criminalist, reported finding blood stains on rubber mats and cuts that suggested the use of a sharp object. Blood matched Rivas Hernandez’s DNA.
Wallace noted the absence of visible blood on two chain saws linked to Burke but detected blood on cleaning items and a rowing machine. These discoveries came from using a chemical that highlights hidden blood stains by causing a blue glow.
Defense attorney Blair Berk questioned the thoroughness of the forensic process, pointing to inconsistencies in evidence handling. Chelsea Murillo, another criminalist, admitted not swabbing the Tesla’s exterior for DNA, raising questions about the evidence’s integrity.
The Prosecution’s Argument
Prosecutors aim to establish that Burke and Rivas Hernandez had a sexual relationship beginning when she was 13. They allege this relationship, which continued as Burke gained fame as an indie-pop artist, led to tensions. Court documents suggest that Rivas Hernandez threatened Burke’s career, prompting him to act on April 23, 2025. She was picked up in a car Burke sent and killed at his home.
Her dismembered body was discovered four months later in his Tesla, which was impounded. Detective Joshua Byers described finding body parts in bags consistent with items Burke purchased.
Additional Testimonies and Findings
A California Highway Patrol officer revealed that Rivas Hernandez’s passport was discovered along the highway, approximately 95 miles from Burke’s home. Prosecutors traced Burke’s visits to this location around the time of the murder and weeks later. Relationships with others are believed to have resulted in the passport discovery, reflecting attempts to conceal the crime.
Rivas Hernandez’s parents attended the hearings but are not expected to provide testimony. Meanwhile, Burke has been in jail without bail since his arrest, appearing in court in standard jail attire.
Financial Aspects of Burke’s Career
Witnesses informed the court about Burke’s financial success, reporting earnings of at least $10 million between 2023 and 2025. He gained popularity in the music industry, creating YouTube videos that boosted his fame. His music, including the major hit “Romantic Homicide,” gained significant traction across platforms like TikTok and Spotify.
Throughout 2023, Burke released multiple projects and toured with major artists. His rising stardom continued until the grim discovery interrupted his career momentum.
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