Singer-songwriter David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, has been arrested in connection with the murder of a teenager. Police announced the arrest on Thursday, following the discovery of a decomposing body in a vehicle registered to the artist.
The victim has been identified as 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a resident of Lake Elsinore, California. According to investigators, Rivas Hernandez had been reported missing in 2024.
Discovery in Hollywood Impound Lot
The investigation reached a critical turning point on September 8, 2025, when Los Angeles police responded to a Hollywood impound lot. Officers were called to the scene after a “foul odor” was detected coming from a vehicle.
Authorities discovered the body of the teenager inside the front trunk of a Tesla. The vehicle, which was registered to Burke, had been found abandoned on a Hollywood street and had remained in the impound lot for two days prior to the discovery.
Forensic Challenges and Legal Proceedings
Establishing the cause of death proved to be a significant hurdle for the Medical Examiner. Sources indicate that the state of the body—which was decayed and in pieces—complicated the process of proving a murder had occurred.
Despite these challenges, investigators have stated they can now prove the teen’s death was a murder. The arrest of David Burke was based on developed evidence and probable cause, though officials noted it was not an indictment.
Burke is currently being held without bail. Los Angeles police stated that the case is scheduled to be presented to the district attorney’s office on Monday for filing consideration.
Impact on Career and Public Profile
Burke, who gained initial fame on TikTok with nearly 4 million followers, was on his “Withered” world tour at the time the body was discovered. The legal turmoil led to the cancellation of several performances.
The canceled dates included the final shows of the tour, specifically those scheduled for Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Potential Legal Trajectory
As the case moves toward the district attorney’s office, the legal process could result in formal charges being filed. Depending on the evidence presented on Monday, the prosecution may seek a formal indictment.
The proceedings are likely to focus on the evidence and probable cause developed by investigators to establish the timeline between Rivas Hernandez’s disappearance and the discovery of the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is D4vd?
D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, is an American singer-songwriter who first went viral on TikTok, where he has nearly 4 million followers.
How was Celeste Rivas Hernandez found?
Her decomposing body was found in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to David Burke. The vehicle was located in a Hollywood impound lot after police responded to reports of a foul odor.
What is the current status of the legal case?
David Burke has been arrested and is being held without bail. The case is expected to be presented to the district attorney’s office on Monday for filing consideration.
How do forensic challenges in high-profile cases typically impact the timeline of an arrest?
