Singer D4vd Arrested in Los Angeles on Suspicion of Murder in Death of Missing 14-Year-Old

Singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, was arrested April 16, 2026, in Los Angeles on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, authorities said. The 21-year-old is being held without bail.

The case stems from the discovery of a body on September 8, 2025, inside the front trunk of a Tesla Model Y registered to Burke. The vehicle had been left in the Hollywood Hills and was towed after nearby residents reported a strong odor. Investigators later determined the remains were those of Hernandez, who had been reported missing from Lake Elsinore in April 2024.

According to court records, the body was heavily decomposed and had been dismembered and placed in cadaver bags. Medical examiners required more than a week to confirm the victim’s identity.

Investigators have pointed to a possible connection between Burke and Hernandez. Family members of the victim previously told authorities she had a boyfriend named “David.” Photos reviewed during the investigation appear to show the two together with matching tattoos on their index fingers.

The investigation unfolded over several months. Shortly after the body was found in September 2025, Burke canceled dates on his “Withered” world tour. A grand jury inquiry began in November, and a judge sealed autopsy findings. In February 2026, Burke’s parents and brother were ordered to testify after initially attempting to block subpoenas.

Police say they believe more than one person may have been involved in the dismemberment and disposal of the body.

The Los Angeles Police Department is expected to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on April 20 for a decision on formal charges. The investigation remains ongoing.