Judge Orders Trial After Preliminary Hearing
A California judge has ruled that American singer D4vd, legally known as David Anthony Burke, must stand trial on charges of murdering a 14-year-old girl. The ruling came on July 27, 2026, after a five-day preliminary hearing that revealed deeply troubling evidence. Judge Charlaine Olmedo determined that prosecutors had presented enough incriminating evidence to proceed, setting the stage for a trial that could result in life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Burke, now 21, faces multiple charges including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. The case involves the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decomposing body was discovered in September 2025 in the trunk of a Tesla registered in Burke's name.
Prosecutors Allege Disturbing Details
According to prosecutors, Burke began a sexual relationship with Hernandez when she was 13 and he was 18. In April 2025, Hernandez allegedly threatened to expose the relationship, sending a series of angry text messages approximately 24 hours before her death. The messages reportedly included statements like: “I swear to GOD I will kill u she was in my dam seat i will strangle u…i will end ur career and ur life I will damage anything.”
Prosecutors allege that Burke then paid for an Uber to bring Hernandez to his home, where he stabbed her to death. Evidence presented included Amazon purchase records showing he bought chainsaws, an inflatable pool, and a portable incinerator. The incinerator proved too small to destroy her remains. Additional details revealed that Hernandez had become pregnant by Burke and underwent a removal of the pregnancy, as indicated in text messages submitted as evidence.
Defense Claims No Intent to Kill
Burke’s legal team denied any deliberate intent to kill, arguing that Hernandez had exhibited violent behavior toward the singer and had a history of mental health struggles, including suicidal ideation. Defense lawyer Blair Berk stated, “there was no evidence of deliberate intention to kill.” The defense attempted to paint Hernandez as the aggressor, but prosecutors pushed back firmly.
Prosecutor Beth Silverman countered, saying “there’s nothing in this case that sounds like an accident,” and accused the defense of attempting to discredit the victim. The prosecution emphasized the calculated nature of the alleged actions, including the purchase of equipment to destroy evidence.
Victim's Family Reacts
Patrick Steinfeld, an attorney representing Hernandez’s family, also responded to the defense’s approach, stating: “I find it abhorrent that defense attorneys are trying to put any blame on this young child.” The family had been aware of the relationship and had even provided written consent for Hernandez to travel to London with Burke in September 2024. The pair broke up in November 2024 but remained in contact.
The victim’s family has expressed outrage over the defense’s strategy, which they see as an attempt to shift responsibility onto a minor. The case has drawn significant media attention due to Burke’s celebrity status.
Singer's Rise to Fame
Burke rose to prominence in 2022 after his song “Romantic Homicide” went viral on TikTok, amassing millions of streams. He later performed at the Coachella music festival in 2025, just months before the alleged murder. His debut album was scheduled for release shortly after Hernandez’s death, adding a layer of timing to the prosecution’s narrative.
Burke’s legal troubles have shocked fans and the music industry, as he was seen as a rising star. The case highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and criminal justice, with many following the proceedings closely.
Next Steps in Trial
A hearing to discuss the trial schedule is set for July 30, 2026. Burke remains in custody pending trial. If convicted, he faces the possibility of life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty, given the severity of the charges. The trial is expected to draw extensive media coverage and could take months to conclude.
The case has also sparked discussions about the age of consent, power dynamics in relationships, and the responsibility of public figures. As the legal process unfolds, both the defense and prosecution are preparing for a contentious battle in court.
