Is D4vd getting death penalty? Prosecution weighs possibility in Celeste murder case

Singer David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, has been ordered to stand trial after a Los Angeles judge ruled there is sufficient evidence for prosecutors to proceed with charges over the alleged murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

Judge Charlaine Olmedo ruled on Monday that prosecutors had established probable cause during a preliminary hearing to support charges of murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

“The people have met their burden on all counts,” Olmedo said as she ordered the case to move forward. Burke remains in custody without bail.

The 21-year-old musician has pleaded not guilty to all charges. According to the report, he showed no visible emotion as the ruling was delivered, while his defence lawyers declined to comment outside court.

Prosecutors allege Burke killed Rivas Hernandez after she threatened to expose their relationship, which they claim could have jeopardised his music career.

During the hearing, they presented what they described as a detailed timeline of the events leading up to her death, including text messages exchanged between the pair.

According to prosecutors, Rivas Hernandez sent her final message while travelling to Burke's home in an Uber that they allege he arranged.

The message, sent shortly after 10 a.m. on April 23 2025, read: “girly pop i’m almost there open ur door if ur home.”

Prosecutors allege she was stabbed to death shortly after arriving at the property. Her mobile phone reportedly became inactive after reaching the residence.

Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman argued the prosecution had presented compelling evidence during the hearing.

“Based on the mountains of evidence presented,” Silverman said, “all of the allegations have been proved way beyond the standard required.”

Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman said prosecutors are still considering whether to seek the death penalty if Burke is convicted. Burke is scheduled to be arraigned on August 31.