US singer D4vd bought tools online to dispose of girl's body, prosecutors have alleged. #BBCNews
US singer D4vd (David Anthony Burke) has been accused by prosecutors of purchasing tools including chainsaws to dispose of the body of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whom he allegedly stabbed to death. He pleaded not guilty to murder. Prosecutors allege he had been sexually abusing the girl since she was 13, and that she had threatened to expose their relationship before her death.
Summary
US singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, appeared in court on Wednesday facing serious criminal allegations including murder. Prosecutors allege that Burke stabbed 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez to death and subsequently purchased tools online, including chainsaws, in an effort to cover his tracks and dispose of her body.
According to court filings, Burke allegedly met Celeste when she was just 11 years old. Prosecutors claim he began sexually abusing her when she was 13 years old and he was 18. Prior to her death, the teenage victim allegedly sent text messages threatening to expose their interactions and 'destroy his life,' which prosecutors appear to present as a possible motive.
The dismembered body of Celeste Rivas Hernandez was discovered in Burke's car in September 2025. CCTV footage cited in the court filing allegedly shows Burke was the last person to drive his Tesla to the location where the body was found. Following the discovery, his worldwide tour was cancelled.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to murder, and another court hearing is scheduled to take place. The case involves multiple serious charges including murder, alleged sexual abuse of a minor, and actions taken to conceal evidence.
Key Insights
- Prosecutors allege Burke purchased tools online, including chainsaws, as part of deliberate steps taken to cover his tracks after the alleged killing.
- Prosecutors claim Burke began sexually abusing Celeste Rivas Hernandez when she was 13 years old and he was 18, having first met her when she was just 11.
- Prosecutors allege that the victim sent texts threatening to reveal their interactions and 'destroy his life' before she was killed, suggesting a possible motive.
- CCTV footage cited in court filings allegedly shows Burke was the last person to drive his Tesla to the location where the dismembered body was discovered in September 2025.
- Burke has pleaded not guilty to murder and appeared in court on Wednesday, with another hearing due to take place following the proceedings.
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