Relatives of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez have now spoken publicly, calling for accountability after murder charges were filed against the singer known as D4vd. In a statement issued Tuesday, they thanked investigators with the Los Angeles Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office, while also acknowledging support from residents in Lake Elsinore. Reflecting on her life, they said, “Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. Every Friday night was movie night and we spent wonderful times together,” according to ABC 7 Los Angeles. The family’s words offered a portrait of an ordinary routine interrupted by loss.
They continued, “We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.” The statement followed their appearance in court, where prosecutors outlined allegations they described as especially violent. Authorities contend that David Anthony Burke, 21, engaged in an illicit relationship with the teenager and later killed her when she threatened disclosure, accusations he denies. Investigators further allege that her body was dismembered and concealed in his vehicle.
Prosecutors say the case includes charges tied to sexual offenses involving a minor, along with the handling of human remains. Officials have pointed to a combination of physical, forensic, and digital material they believe will support their claims. The remains were discovered in September 2025 in the trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke, months after she was last seen leaving a residence in the Hollywood Hills.
Prosecutors Detail First-Degree Murder Charges as Burke Pleads Not Guilty
At a press briefing on April 20, District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the counts as among the most serious available under state law. “These charges include the most serious charges that a D.A.’s office can bring—that is, first-degree murder with special circumstances,” he said, adding, “The special circumstances being lying in wait, committing this crime for financial gain, or murdering a witness in an investigation.” He also asserted, “This murder was committed for financial gain, as the evidence will show in court. The financial gain was for Mr. Burke to maintain his very lucrative musical career that Celeste was threatening.”
Court filings further allege the use of a sharp weapon, a detail not emphasized during the public remarks. Burke has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody without bail, housed separately for security reasons. His attorneys responded, “The actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not the cause of her death. We will vigorously defend David’s innocence.” His parents, in a separate statement, voiced support while expressing disappointment at the charges.
If found guilty, Burke could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet decided whether to seek capital punishment.
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