D4vd murder case: Hearing postponed after prosecutors ask for more time to review evidence

Hearing for D4vd postponed

A hearing for D4vd was postponed after prosecutors have asked for more time to review evidence. 

LOS ANGELES - In a major courtroom update Thursday, a prosecutor alleged that child pornography was discovered on a phone belonging to singer D4vd. The revelation came during a preliminary hearing to determine if the 21-year-old artist will stand trial for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

What we know:

A judge will eventually determine whether the "Romantic Homicide" singer will be tried for the murder of the Inland Empire teen. 

New allegations in court

Lead prosecutor Beth Silverman alleged in court that the illicit material was found on a device belonging to David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd. The discovery is reportedly part of a "massive" collection of evidence investigators have compiled, which includes digital forensics and witness testimony.

Burke’s defense team, which has maintained his innocence, is currently asking for the public release of the evidence in the case. Attorneys for the singer previously stated that the "actual evidence" will show Burke did not murder Hernandez and was not the cause of her death.

Gruesome autopsy report released

The day prior, it was revealed the Los Angeles Medical Examiner's Office determined Rivas Hernandez's cause of death was "multiple penetrating injuries," and ruled her cause of death a homicide.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s cause of death released

The prosecution alleges the murder occurred on or about April 23, 2025, after the singer invited the teen girl to his Hollywood Hills home and about two weeks later, it is suspected her remains were cut up and placed into the bags. 

Earlier this week, the 21-year-old pleaded not guilty to a series of charges, including first-degree murder. Prosecutors have added what are called special circumstances, including lying in weight, killing for financial gain and murdering a witness. Those enhancements opened the door for the harshest possible penalties: life without parole or the death penalty. 

Prosecutors are alleging he killed her after she threatened to expose an alleged sexual relationship, one they say began when she was just 13 years old.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: LAPD: Singer D4vd, 21, Celeste Rivas Hernandez, 14, involved in sexual relationship before teen's death

Burke is currently being held without bail.

If a judge finds probable cause, the case moves forward and heads closer to a trial, potentially one that could last months. 

What we don't know:

While the autopsy is complete, the District Attorney’s Office has yet to decide whether they will seek the death penalty. 

Timeline:

• 2024: Rivas Hernandez is reported missing by her mother at age 13.
• April 23, 2025: Rivas Hernandez is last seen after allegedly visiting Burke’s Hollywood Hills home.
• Sept. 8, 2025: Rivas Hernandez's remains are discovered in a towed Tesla at a Hollywood yard.
• Sept. 10, 2025: Initial autopsy is performed.
• Dec. 9, 2025: Manner and cause of death are determined, but remain sealed until this week.
• Feb. 2026: Court filings from Burke’s parents reveal the specific condition of the remains.
• April 16, 2026 : Burke is arrested by the LAPD.

What they're saying:

"A parent's nightmare is a situation when your daughter goes out one night and never comes back," said District Attorney Nathan Hochman in a released statement. "Celeste... went to Mr. Burke's house... She was never heard from again."

"Let us be clear, the actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez, and he was not the cause of her death," stated defense attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter.

What's next:

Burke's next scheduled court appearance is set for Friday, May 1.