Courtroom testimony in Los Angeles has revealed new details in the high-profile murder case against indie pop artist D4vd.
The musician, born David Anthony Burke, faces charges of first-degree murder, mutilation of human remains, and child sexual abuse following the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. During the preliminary hearing on July 24, 2026, prosecutors introduced text message records showing that Rivas Hernandez had become pregnant and subsequently underwent an abortion in early January 2024—more than a year prior to her death. Read more on a connected issue: this related article.
The evidence presented in court sheds light on the nature of their relationship and the forensic challenges surrounding the investigation.
Court Evidence Reveals Text Messages and Pregnancy Details
The prosecution presented digital records recovered from Burke's iCloud account and seized iPhone. The text message history revealed frequent discussions regarding contraception, emergency contraceptives, and pregnancy during their relationship. Further journalism by The Guardian explores related views on the subject.
In early January 2024, when Rivas Hernandez was 13 years old, the two exchanged messages discussing her pregnancy and an abortion procedure.
- January 2024 Messages: Burke sent text messages apologizing to Rivas Hernandez for "putting her through this".
- Victim's Response: Rivas Hernandez replied, noting that neither of them was capable of caring for a child and agreeing that the decision was necessary.
- Timeline: The relationship began when Rivas Hernandez was 11 years old and Burke was 18, according to filings submitted by the prosecution.
The reading of the text message exchanges prompted emotional reactions in the courtroom. Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman comforted the victim's mother, Mercedes Martinez, who subsequently left the gallery during the presentation of the records.
Medical Examiner Details Autopsy Findings and Challenges
Dr. Grant Ho, a medical examiner with the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner, testified regarding the postmortem examination of Rivas Hernandez. Her remains were discovered in September 2025 inside the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke. Prosecutors allege she was killed in April 2025, five months prior to the discovery.
April 2025 September 2025 July 2026
Alleged Date of Death ----> Remains Discovered in Vehicle ----> Medical Testimony Presented
Dr. Ho testified that severe decomposition and body degradation presented significant obstacles in pinpointing the exact time and precise mechanics of death. Key points from the forensic testimony included:
- Cause of Death: Identified as multiple penetrating sharp force injuries, specifically highlighting two distinct stab wounds.
- Internal Trauma: One wound on the left chest damaged her ribs, while a second wound to the abdomen penetrated her liver.
- Timeframe of Death: Dr. Ho noted it was difficult to determine the exact date, confirming only that she had been dead for at least several weeks to months before discovery.
- Survival Duration: The examiner stated that bleeding from the internal organ damage would have caused death within minutes to an hour.
Defense Arguments and Legal Proceedings
During cross-examination, defense attorney Marilyn Bednarski questioned the medical examiner regarding alternative scenarios. The defense raised questions on whether the degradation of the remains made it impossible to definitively rule out self-inflicted wounds or an accidental overdose. Dr. Ho responded that typical self-inflicted sharp force injuries feature "hesitation marks" on the skin, which were not observed on the victim's body.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including first-degree murder and child sexual abuse. The preliminary hearing continues in Los Angeles Superior Court to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed to a full trial.
