The parents of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose dismembered remains were discovered in a Tesla belonging to aspiring artist David “D4vd” Burke, were aware of her ongoing relationship with him, according to court testimony.
Prosecutors claim they attempted to separate the two when she ran away. They took her phone and even contacted law enforcement. Allegedly, Burke once paid $1,000 to ensure a new phone reached her through a high school student, as indicated by prosecutors.
Detective Corey Ferrell from the Los Angeles Police Department recounted the text message exchanges during Burke’s preliminary hearing, which is approaching its conclusion.
Burke’s defense argues that Celeste’s family consented to at least part of their relationship. Furthermore, they assert that she had signed permission to accompany Burke to London and noted that her sister was also reportedly in Las Vegas with them. Interestingly, Celeste told Burke in various texts that she was older, claiming to be 16 or even 18 years old.
Despite the defense’s arguments, the judge permitted the case to move forward, enabling prosecution appeals. If convicted, Burke could potentially face the death penalty, though California has a moratorium on executions. As of now, prosecutors have not made a final decision on the charges.
Notably, Burke is accused of killing Celeste just two days prior to her debut album release. Prosecutors suggest that Celeste threatened to reveal Burke’s alleged predatory behavior when he showed interest in other women.
According to the prosecution, Burke invited Celeste to his Hollywood Hills residence on April 23, 2025. That visit marked the last occasion she was seen alive.
The following morning, after giving a radio interview promoting his forthcoming album, Burke reportedly purchased suspicious items online, including a shabu, three chainsaws, a body bag, and a blue wading pool. Some purchases were reportedly made under fake names.
Allegedly, Burke killed Celeste soon after her arrival and later dismembered her using a chainsaw, with investigators claiming to have identified her DNA at the site.
Burke’s Tesla was controversially seized on September 8, 2025, with police subsequently discovering Celeste’s decomposed remains inside. Notably, her body had been wrapped in material consistent with parts from the swimming pool.
Burke is expected to return to court for an arraignment hearing on August 31.
