New Court Ruling Pushes D4vd Murder Case Forward
Months after his arrest, the criminal case against musician David Anthony Burke has moved one step closer to trial. On July 27, 2026, a Los Angeles judge ruled that there was enough evidence presented during a five-day preliminary hearing for Burke, known professionally as D4vd, to stand trial. As of now, Burke has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of human remains.
Before this, prosecutors said Burke had allegedly murdered 14-year-old Celeste Rivas-Hernandez. The authorities had also alleged that the crime was connected to a possible sexual relation between the defendant and victim. At the time, the investigation was still unfolding, and many questions remained unanswered; Burke has maintained his innocence since his arrest and pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors presented text messages between Burke and Rivas-Hernandez that they argue demonstrate an inappropriate relationship during the preliminary hearing (July 24 & 27). The messages included discussions of pregnancy and abortion, which prosecutors say support their allegations of grooming and sexual abuse.
These messages also reportedly showed that the day before prosecutors say Rivas-Hernandez was reported missing, the two got in an argument because of Burke’s relations with other girls. Celeste threatened to expose their relationship, which he believed would damage his career. Prosecutors alleged that this was Burke’s motive to kill the victim.
After investigators searched Burke’s home, not too far from the location where Celeste’s remains were found, they discovered blood in his garage. Lauren Wallace, a criminalist with the LAPD, testified that the blood found in Burke’s garage belonged to Celeste Rivas Hernandez through DNA testing.
Dr. Grant Ho, a Deputy Medical Examiner, also testified that she died of multiple penetrating injuries. The autopsy also noted Rivas Hernandez’s ring and index fingers were missing. Causing prosecutors to argue that it supports the homicide charge and that those fingers may have contained tattoos connected to Burke.
They also presented evidence about tools allegedly used after the victim’s death. Under the name “Victoria Mendez,” Burke ordered two chainsaws, an inflatable blue pool, a body bag, and chemicals. This is all allegedly what he used to dismember and attempt to hide the evidence of the murder.
Defense attorneys argued prosecutors failed to prove Burke acted with premeditation and challenged whether the evidence established first-degree murder. They maintained Burke is not guilty.
During a preliminary hearing, judges do not determine guilt or innocence. Instead, they decide whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence for a reasonable jury to hear the case, and that is exactly what happened.
“The whole situation makes me disgusted. Every support system she should’ve had failed her, and it’s crazy to me how they all knew and did nothing. After the whole situation went public, everyone wanted justice, which makes me feel hopeful because so many journalists and just people keeping up to date were connecting dots. All they want is what’s right, which is obviously punishment for the culprit,” said student at Northeastern University, Camila Garcia.
Ultimately, Judge Charlaine Olmedo determined prosecutors presented enough evidence for a jury trial. The defense attorney argued that the evidence was insufficient and challenged the prosecution’s theory; however, the judge denied the defense’s request and ordered Burke to stand trial. His arraignment is scheduled for August 31st, with trial expected afterward.
“I hope Celeste gets the justice she deserves; this world is cruel and inconceivable. This case not only shows that people are evil, but we have to care and protect one another from people who want to hurt us,” said senior Kylee St. Fort.
Burke is currently in custody without bail. As the case moves toward trial, prosecutors are still considering whether or not to seek the death penalty.. Burke is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
