In brief
Singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, was arraigned on murder charges related to the death of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. His celebrity defense team recanted and withdrew, prompting the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office to step in. The proceedings follow allegations that Burke struck the victim after a dispute over sexual abuse. A pre‑trial hearing is scheduled for October 19, with the court already deciding he will stand trial. Meanwhile, prosecutors claim Burke opened cases of financial gain and personal threats while guardianship was threatened by the teenager’s accusations.
D4vd’s high‑profile attorneys have withdrawn from his murder case, leaving the public defender’s office to represent the singer.
American musician David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, is presently facing a first‑degree murder charge for the 2025 death of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Burke has been appointed a public defender to mount his defence in the case. The teen’s body was discovered inside a Tesla registered at Burke’s address.
On Monday, Burke pleaded not guilty at the Los Angeles court. A judge last month ruled that he will stand trial for murder. Prosecutors allege that Burke stabbed the teen after years of sexual abuse, then dismembered her body. They claim the victim’s texts threatened both personal harm and the downfall of his music career.
A pre‑trial hearing is set for October 19. Attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Peter confirmed that the court granted their withdrawal request. In their statement they noted that Burke now has “appointed counsel” and urged support for his legal team.
Blair Berk, who led the former defense, previously represented notable figures such as Mel Gibson, Harvey Weinstein, Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan. Deputy public defender Walid Kandeel reaffirmed that Burke remains entitled to a thorough defense, stating the office’s commitment to diligent legal support.
Prior to his arraignment the singer had pleaded not guilty to first‑degree murder, mutilation of human remains and child sexual abuse. Those charges were formally read and Burke re‑entered the plea. Special circumstances linked to financial gain raise the threat of a death sentence. Prosecutors maintain that Burke’s motive was to silence the victim, who threatened to expose his conduct with a minor and jeopardise his multi‑million dollar career.
Evidence presented during preliminary hearings highlighted threatening texts. These included "I will end your career," the speaker wrote. Prosecutors say the victim then travelled to Burke’s Hollywood home the following day, during which the murder reportedly occurred.
