D4vd Accused of Stabbing Teen to Silence Her, Prosecutors Allege
Prosecutors have detailed allegations that musician David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, fatally stabbed 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez to prevent her from revealing details of their relationship and potentially derailing his burgeoning music career. The claims surfaced in a recent court document as Burke faces charges of murder and sexual abuse.
Timeline of a Tragic Relationship
The prosecution alleges the relationship began when Celeste was 13 and D4vd was 18, with a sexual relationship developing shortly thereafter. According to the court document, D4vd met Celeste when she was 11 and “resided with, and had recurring access” to her. Celeste reportedly ran away from her home in Lake Elsinore multiple times, and after the first instance, her parents took away her phone. Prosecutors claim D4vd circumvented this by paying a friend of Celeste’s $1,000 for a cellphone to maintain contact.
The pair traveled extensively, including trips to Las Vegas, London, and Texas, where Celeste met D4vd’s family. Investigators found evidence that Celeste spent significant time at D4vd’s Hollywood Hills home.
Threats to Expose and the Alleged Murder
According to prosecutors, messages between D4vd and Celeste from April 2025 reveal her jealousy over his relationships with other women and her belief that he had promised her a future together. She allegedly threatened to disclose “damaging information” about their relationship, fearing it would conclude his career.
The prosecution alleges that D4vd, fearing the consequences of Celeste’s threats, stabbed her multiple times shortly after she arrived at his home. “Knowing he had to silence the victim before she ruined his music career as she had threatened, very soon after her arrival at his home, defendant stabbed the victim to death multiple times and stood by although she bled out,” the document states.
Discovery of Remains and Forensic Evidence
Celeste’s decomposed remains were discovered in September 2025 inside the trunk of a Tesla registered to D4vd, which had been abandoned in the Hollywood Hills. D4vd was identified as the last person to drive the vehicle. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined Celeste died from penetrating injuries, with significant wounds to her torso. The condition of the remains initially delayed determining the cause of death.
Investigators also found that two of Celeste’s fingers were missing, and prosecutors allege she had D4vd’s name tattooed on them. The prosecution claims D4vd possessed child sex abuse images of Celeste.
Legal Battles and Upcoming Hearings
D4vd’s legal team maintains his innocence. They previously sought to block the release of the prosecution’s brief, but the judge denied their request. A hearing originally scheduled for Friday has been postponed until late May to allow the defense time to review the evidence.
The Case and the Broader Issue of Grooming
This case highlights the dangers of grooming and the power imbalances that can exist between young people and adults. The alleged timeline, beginning when Celeste was 11, raises serious concerns about the predatory nature of the alleged relationship. Experts emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of grooming and providing support to potential victims.
Did you know?
Grooming is a manipulative process where an abuser builds a relationship with a victim to gain their trust and develop them more vulnerable to exploitation. It can occur online or in person and often involves showering the victim with attention and gifts.
FAQ
What charges is D4vd facing?
D4vd is charged with first-degree murder with special circumstances, lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14, use of a deadly weapon, and mutilation of human remains.
When did Celeste Rivas Hernandez go missing?
Celeste was first reported missing in April 2024, but had run away previously. Her remains were discovered in September 2025.
What evidence does the prosecution have?
The prosecution has presented evidence including messages between D4vd and Celeste, forensic evidence from the crime scene, and allegations of child sex abuse images.
What is the current status of the case?
The case is ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for late May to allow the defense time to review evidence.
Where can I find more information about grooming and exploitation?
Resources are available at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (https://www.missingkids.org/) and RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) (https://www.rainn.org).
Pro Tip: If you suspect a child is being groomed or exploited, report it to the authorities immediately. Trust your instincts and prioritize the safety of the child.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE.
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