Judge to hear evidence against singer D4vd in killing, dismemberment of teen and decide on trial - NBC News

What the report says

NBC News, citing reporting from The Associated Press, reported that singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, appeared in Los Angeles court Tuesday for a preliminary hearing in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo is expected to decide after a multiday proceeding whether prosecutors have shown probable cause for Burke, 21, to stand trial.

Burke has pleaded not guilty to murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains. Prosecutors allege he brought Celeste to a Hollywood Hills home he was renting in April 2025, killed her after she threatened to disclose their relationship, and dismembered her body in his garage. His attorney has said Burke was not responsible for Celeste’s death. The judge rejected requests for Burke to appear in a suit and to be fully unshackled, though his handcuffs were removed at counsel table.

The first public evidence included testimony from investigators. A sheriff’s deputy said he had previously contacted Burke while checking on Celeste after a missing-person report, and that Burke claimed he met her on Discord and believed she was 18. An LAPD detective described finding Celeste’s remains in trash bags in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke after tow-yard workers noticed an odor in September 2025. Prosecutors also cited alleged purchases including chain saws, bags and an inflatable pool, and said DNA and surveillance evidence linked Burke to the case.

The hearing functions like a shortened trial without a jury, giving the prosecution a chance to outline its case and the defense an opportunity to test the evidence before any full trial. NBC noted Burke had a fast-rising music career, including viral streaming success and recent major festival and tour appearances.