A judge in California has decided that singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, will face trial concerning the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. This decision came after prosecutors presented a series of text messages that they argue indicate rising tensions between the two prior to the teenager's tragic death. The ruling was made following a preliminary hearing in Los Angeles on Monday, where the prosecution asserted that there was enough evidence to proceed with the murder charges against Burke. He is facing serious allegations, including first-degree murder with special circumstances, mutilation of human remains, and sexual offenses involving a minor.

Text Messages Presented in Court

During the hearing, prosecutors revealed text messages exchanged on April 22, 2025, the day before Rivas was killed. The messages reportedly focused on jealousy stemming from Burke's interactions with another woman. Rivas allegedly confronted Burke about his choice of another woman over her, warning him of potential repercussions. One message cited in court included a threatening statement from Rivas: "I will kill you... I will end your career and life. I will tell my dad." Prosecutors claim Burke feared that Rivas could harm his music career by disclosing details of their relationship.

Details of the Alleged Murder

Prosecutors allege that Burke arranged for an Uber to transport Rivas to his Hollywood Hills residence on April 23, 2025, where she was reportedly stabbed to death. Investigators assert that Burke subsequently dismembered her body using a chainsaw in a children's plastic pool before placing her remains in the trunk of his Tesla. The victim's body was later found inside the vehicle.

Evidence of Alleged Pregnancy

The hearing also revisited previous evidence, including messages that suggested Rivas may have become pregnant in January 2024, when she was just 13. Prosecutors indicated that Burke expressed remorse in these messages and inquired if he was the father. Subsequent messages allegedly indicated that the pregnancy ended through an abortion.

Medical Examination Findings

Dr. Grant Ho, the medical examiner, testified about the severe injuries sustained by Rivas. He reported that she had multiple stab wounds before her body was dismembered at various locations, including her legs, with her hands and fingers partially removed. Dr. Ho classified the death as a homicide resulting from multiple penetrating injuries. Graphic post-mortem images were displayed during the trial after Rivas' parents exited the courtroom.

Defense's Alternative Theory

Burke's defense team suggested that investigators had not entirely dismissed the possibility of suicide. During cross-examination, defense attorneys questioned whether Rivas could have inflicted the wounds herself. Dr. Ho clarified that typical suicide cases show hesitation marks, which were absent in this instance.

Forensic Evidence and Additional Charges

Prosecutors informed the court that blood found in Burke's garage matched Rivas' through forensic analysis. They also claimed that fragments from the children's plastic pool discovered at Burke's residence were found on Rivas' body. In addition to murder charges, Burke faces accusations of committing lewd acts with a child under 14 and mutilating human remains. If found guilty on all counts, he could face life in prison or even the death penalty under California law.