A comprehensive investigation has revealed disturbing details about musician D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke. The rising singer-songwriter faces murder charges in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in a Los Angeles impound lot last September. Burke was arrested in April and formally charged with murder, with prosecutors alleging he killed the girl to conceal sexual abuse.
Rolling Stone’s investigation includes new interviews with individuals previously unwilling to speak publicly, including a label source and another young woman who allegedly engaged in an intense online relationship with Burke while underage. Court filings reveal prosecutors’ claims that Burke maintained an extensive sexual relationship with Rivas Hernandez, beginning online contacts in 2022 when she was 11. The relationship allegedly became sexual in November 2023 when she was 13 years old.
According to evidence presented at preliminary hearings, Burke allegedly orchestrated Rivas Hernandez’s runaway on Valentine’s Day 2024, codifying the escape as “Operation Awesome.” Prosecutors believe Burke stabbed the girl to death in April 2025 after she threatened exposure, then dismembered her remains in his garage. Burke has pleaded not guilty to the charges and retained prominent defense attorneys. The case is scheduled to proceed to trial, though a start date has not been announced.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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