Family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez speaks out after D4vd charged in teen’s murder and dismemberment case
The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the 14-year-old girl whose remains were found in a towed Tesla linked to singer D4vd, is speaking publicly for the first time following his arrest and murder charges in connection with her death.
D4vd, 21, a Los Angeles resident whose legal name is David Burke, was arrested last week after a months-long investigation and formally charged with first-degree murder on Monday. Prosecutors say the case also includes additional allegations tied to sexual abuse and efforts to conceal wrongdoing, along with accusations involving the mutilation of human remains. He has entered a not guilty plea and is being held without bail.
In a statement released through their attorney, Celeste’s parents expressed gratitude to law enforcement and prosecutors while calling for justice for their daughter. They described her as a joyful teenager who loved singing and dancing and said she shared close family moments, including regular Friday movie nights at home.
“We love her very much, and she always told us that she loved us,” her parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, said. “We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.”
The family also said they attended the singer’s first court appearance this week and remain committed to honoring Celeste’s memory throughout the legal process.
Authorities allege Rivas Hernandez, a reported runaway, was last seen alive in April 2025 when she arrived at a home in the Hollywood Hills associated with Burke. She was not heard from again afterward, according to investigators.
Months later, in September 2025, police say her remains were discovered in the trunk of Burke’s abandoned Tesla at a Hollywood tow yard after officers were called to investigate a strong odor coming from the vehicle. Officials said the body was severely decomposed and dismembered, with remains found separated into different bags inside the trunk.
Investigators believe the vehicle had been impounded after being found abandoned on a street and had been sitting at the lot for days before the discovery. Authorities also indicated the teen may have been dead for several weeks before she was found, and her remains were discovered shortly after what would have been her 15th birthday.
Prosecutors have alleged that Burke’s actions were connected to efforts to protect his music career, though those claims are part of the ongoing case. The medical examiner has determined a cause of death, but those findings remain sealed.
Burke’s legal team has strongly denied the allegations, saying he did not kill Rivas Hernandez and disputing the prosecution’s narrative. They say they intend to vigorously challenge the case in court.
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