(David Anthony Burke. Photo by Houston Public Media)
In connection with the killing of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were found months after she vanished, US singer D4vd has entered a not guilty plea to first-degree murder.
The 21-year-old musician, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, is also accused of murder for financial gain and allegedly killing a witness connected to an investigation, according to the BBC on Tuesday.
Burke’s attorneys entered the plea on his behalf during his arraignment on Monday in a Los Angeles court, so he remained silent.
His defence team insisted that “the actual evidence will show that David did not kill Celeste,” adding, “we will vigorously defend David’s innocence.”
Prosecutors alleged that the teenager visited Burke’s Hollywood Hills residence on April 23, 2025, and “she was never heard from again,” according to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
Later, her decayed remains were found on September 8 in the front trunk of a Tesla linked to the singer, marking a major breakthrough in the case.
Hochman called the event tragic, stating, “a parent’s nightmare is a situation where your daughter goes out one night and never comes back,” while outlining charges that include special circumstances such as lying in wait, financial motive and silencing a potential witness.
The victim’s family, in a statement, said they were “committed to ensuring that Celeste’s voice is heard and her memory is honoured throughout this process.”
Police also defended the pace of the investigation, with Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell stating, “My duty is not to fuel speculation. It’s to deliver justice,” adding that investigators had to ensure nothing would “jeopardise this case.”
Burke is still being held without being granted bail, as prosecutors say the case could potentially attract the death penalty if he is convicted.
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