Indie-pop singer David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, faces a preliminary hearing in Los Angeles following his April 2026 arrest for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors are presenting graphic forensic evidence, alleging Burke killed the teen to conceal sexual abuse, a charge he denies.
Graphic Evidence Presented at Clara Foltz Criminal Justice Center
The preliminary hearing for 21-year-old David Anthony Burke, widely recognized by his stage name D4vd, began this week at the Clara Foltz Criminal Justice Center. Prosecutors are working to demonstrate that sufficient evidence exists to proceed with a full trial on charges of first-degree murder with special circumstances, including lying in wait, murder of a witness, and murder for financial gain.
During the opening day of the proceedings, Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman displayed disturbing images of the victim’s remains. The court heard testimony from Los Angeles Police Department Detective Joshua Byers, who described the scene discovered inside a Tesla registered to the singer. Detective Byers testified that the trunk was open and contained a partially unzipped body bag holding a torso and head, noting the presence of maggots
and flies
during the recovery process, according to the msn.com.
Allegations of Premeditation and Mutilation
The prosecution’s narrative centers on a series of purchases made by Burke in the weeks following the victim’s disappearance on April 23, 2025. Burke allegedly ordered a shovel, two chainsaws, heavy-duty bags, and a blue inflatable pool to his Hollywood Hills home. Prosecutors claim the pool was intended to contain the victim’s blood during the dismemberment process.
Further forensic testimony highlighted the discovery of a mini-crematorium
found behind a piano in the singer’s residence. Digital evidence, processed via Cellebrite software, reportedly linked Burke’s iCloud account and a phone labeled Tranquilizer
to the Tesla where the remains were eventually located in September 2025. The identification of the victim was confirmed through dental records after the vehicle was towed to a storage yard in Hollywood, where employees reported a very kenmerkende geur—a distinct odor of decomposition.
Courtroom Presence and Defense Strategy
Throughout the graphic presentation, Burke—who remains in custody—sat at the defense table. Observers noted that he appeared to follow the proceedings closely, at times resting his chin on his hand while viewing the digital evidence on the courtroom monitors. His defense team, led by attorney Blair Berk, has previously asserted his innocence. In earlier filings, Berk stated that they believe the factual evidence will show David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez, nor was he the cause of her death.
The victim’s parents, Jesus Rivas and his wife, were present in the courtroom. While the prosecution warned them regarding the nature of the evidence, they remained for the duration of the presentation. Following the hearing, the court will determine if there is enough evidence to move forward to a jury trial. The charges against Burke include lewd and lascivious sexual acts with a minor, and if convicted, he could face the death penalty.
Transparency and Community Impact
The case has had a significant impact on the musician’s professional standing. Following his arrest, venues canceled scheduled performances.
As the hearing continues over the coming days, the court is expected to examine further testimony regarding the digital trail and forensic reports. The proceedings remain a focal point for both the entertainment industry and the local community, as the legal process moves toward deciding whether the evidence warrants a formal trial.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.