Investigators Scrutinize Second Tool Amid Ongoing D4vd Case
Los Angeles, CA – May 25, 2026 – The murder investigation into the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a 14-year-old girl whose dismembered remains were found in a car linked to musician David Burke, known as D4vd, has been complicated by the reported discovery of a second chainsaw. This detail, emerging from ongoing case filings and legal discussions, has amplified existing theories about the possibility of more than one individual being involved in the alleged dismemberment.

The presence of a second chainsaw, separate from an initial tool reportedly used in the alleged mutilation of Hernandez's body, introduces a significant variable into the established narrative of the case. This detail is currently being examined by authorities and defense teams as preliminary hearings approach.

Charges and Allegations
Burke, 21 years old, faces serious charges including first-degree murder with special circumstances, lewd and lascivious acts with an individual under 14, and mutilating a body. Prosecutors contend that Burke allegedly began sexually abusing Hernandez when she was 11, and the abuse continued until she was 13, at which point she is alleged to have been killed.
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"Celeste represented a threat that night," stated Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman at a press conference on April 20, 2026, suggesting Burke's motive was to protect his burgeoning music career.
Burke has maintained his innocence, with his legal team entering a plea of not guilty to all charges. A preliminary hearing, where a judge will determine if there is sufficient evidence for a trial, is scheduled for June 29, 2026.

Timeline of Discovery and Arrest
Hernandez was first reported missing around March 19, 2026, with subsequent reports filed on April 5, 2026. Her body was discovered on September 8, 2025, inside a Tesla SUV registered to D4vd. The vehicle had reportedly been abandoned on a street near Burke's residence in the Hollywood Hills. D4vd was arrested on April 16, 2026, several days after the discovery of the car and its contents.
Background on D4vd
David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, is a singer and songwriter whose career gained traction through platforms like SoundCloud and TikTok. His debut EP, Petals to Thorns, was released in May 2023, followed by The Lost Petals in September 2023. He had recently been touring, including dates on SZA's SOS Tour, before suspending public appearances following the initial suspicions surrounding his involvement in Hernandez's death. Burke's music is notably produced using the freemium Digital Audio Workstation, BandLab. He was signed by Darkroom and Interscope Records in September 2022.
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