Los Angeles police have released a booking photograph of D4vd following his arrest in connection with the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The image, showing him in a black hoodie, was distributed to news outlets on Monday ahead of a scheduled briefing on the case. It quickly spread across social media, becoming the first widely circulated visual tied to his arrest. Officials said the release was part of standard procedure as the investigation moves into its next stage.
Burke was taken into custody last Thursday, more than seven months after investigators found Rivas’ remains in the trunk of his Tesla. At the time, he was on tour but later canceled all remaining dates. Rivas had been reported missing in 2024 after leaving her home, and authorities have released only limited details since the case first began. Much of the investigation has remained closely held as prosecutors built their case.
At Monday’s press conference, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman confirmed that Burke is facing a charge of first-degree murder. He also said a coroner’s report would be made public in the near future. “There is physical evidence and there is forensic and digital evidence that we intend to present in court to prove these charges beyond a reasonable doubt,” Hochman stated. He further alleged that Burke had a sexual relationship with Rivas, who was 14 at the time of her death.
Police Emphasize Patience as Case Advances Under Special Circumstances
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell addressed questions about the pace of public updates, emphasizing the investigative process. “My duty is not to fuel speculation,” he said. “It’s to deliver justice, and that requires patience and discipline on everybody’s part. This investigation was driven by a single purpose — to secure justice for Celeste Rivas and for those who loved her.”
Prosecutors say the case involves “special circumstances” that could significantly affect sentencing if there is a conviction. Those include allegations of lying in wait, a claimed financial motive, and assertions tied to a separate lewd acts charge involving the alleged relationship. Under California law, those factors could leave Burke facing either life in prison without parole or the death penalty, depending on how the case proceeds in court.
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