Singer D4vd Pleads Not Guilty to Murder Charges in Teen’s Death

American musician D4vd has pleaded not guilty to multiple murder charges in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl whose remains were discovered last year.

The 21-year-old artist, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, appeared in court in Los Angeles on Monday for his arraignment, his first appearance since his arrest. He did not speak during the hearing, with his legal team entering the plea on his behalf.

Burke is accused of murdering Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was reported missing in April 2025. Prosecutors allege she visited his home in the Hollywood Hills on 23 April and was never seen again.

According to court documents, her dismembered remains were discovered on 8 September 2025 in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke. Investigators said the body had been severely decomposed, with limbs found separated inside a bag.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, led by Nathan Hochman, has filed several charges against the singer. These include first-degree murder with special circumstances, as well as allegations of murder for financial gain and killing a potential witness.

Prosecutors claim Burke acted to protect his music career, alleging the teenager posed a threat to his reputation. They also allege she was a witness in an investigation involving sexual misconduct.

Hochman said the case includes allegations of serious offences involving a minor, as well as the mutilation of a body. He added that the prosecution could pursue the death penalty.

Burke’s defence team strongly rejected the accusations, maintaining that evidence will show he did not kill the teenager and was not responsible for her death. They also pushed for a more transparent legal process after months of closed-door grand jury proceedings.

In a notable move, the court ordered the release of the coroner’s report, which had previously been sealed—an uncommon step in such cases.

The family of Rivas Hernandez said in a statement that they remain committed to ensuring her voice is heard and her memory honoured throughout the legal process.

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell also addressed criticism over the handling of the investigation, defending the limited release of information in the months following the discovery of the body.