LOS ANGELES — Singer D4vd, identified legally as David Anthony Burke, 21, was arrested Thursday, April 16, 2026, on suspicion of murder in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Police confirmed the arrest, stating Burke is being held without bail. The Los Angeles Police Department is set to present the case to the District Attorney's office on Monday, April 20, 2026, for filing consideration.
The investigation intensified with a grand jury hearing evidence since December. Celeste Rivas Hernandez's body, described as decomposed, was discovered in a Tesla registered to D4vd in September of the previous year. Authorities had been treating the death as a homicide, with initial findings suggesting it occurred in the spring of 2025.
Timeline of Events and Investigation
D4vd's arrest marks a significant development after months of what some observers called a lull in the case. Authorities had not publicly identified D4vd as a suspect early in the investigation. == His representatives had previously stated he was cooperating with authorities.
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Body Discovery: Celeste Rivas Hernandez's body was found in September 2025 inside a bag in D4vd's Tesla, which had reportedly been impounded. A foul odor from the vehicle prompted the discovery.
Grand Jury Proceedings: A grand jury began hearing evidence in December 2025.
Arrest: D4vd was arrested on April 16, 2026, at a home in the Hollywood Hills.
Legal Process: The case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office on April 20, 2026.
Background and Public Reaction
The arrest has stirred considerable reaction online, with many fans questioning the pace of the investigation. Hashtags demanding answers and questioning the timing of the arrest circulated widely.
D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, gained prominence through viral songs on platforms like TikTok. He has also had notable career moments, including being listed on Variety's Young Hollywood list and opening for SZA on her SOS tour.
Legal representatives for D4vd have issued statements asserting his innocence. Attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter stated, "Let us be clear - the actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not the cause of her death."
Law enforcement sources have suggested that Celeste Rivas Hernandez allegedly met D4vd on social media and may have been residing at a rental property with the singer after running away. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office has provided details regarding the victim's attire at the time her body was found. No official statements have been released by the family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
