Family of 14-year-old found dead in singer D4vd’s Tesla advocates for death penalty in ongoing legal case
The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez is advocating for the death penalty for D4vd, a singer whose real name is David Anthony Burke, following a Los Angeles judge’s decision to proceed to trial regarding the murder of the 14-year-old. The dismembered remains of Rivas Hernandez were discovered in the trunk of Burke’s Tesla last year, triggering widespread outrage and prompting the family’s call for justice.
In a poignant statement released on what would have been Rivas Hernandez’s 16th birthday, her family expressed their profound sorrow, declaring that Burke is “devoid of feelings” and has caused immeasurable pain to their family and the larger community. Their grief is palpable as they reflect on the memories of their daughter, describing feelings that only close relatives can understand.
The investigation reveals that the teen’s remains were found encased in black cadaver bags at a Los Angeles impound lot in September 2025. Authorities reported that Burke’s vehicle was abandoned near his home and subsequently reported, leading to the grim discovery. The court documents indicated that the remains were in a state of decomposition, with both a severed head and torso unearthed from separate containers.
Burke, now 21, was apprehended in April at a residence in the Hollywood Hills. He faces multiple charges, including murder and continuous sexual abuse of a minor under 14. He has entered a not guilty plea to these serious allegations. The prosecutorial narrative suggests a complex and troubling relationship between Burke and Rivas Hernandez, reportedly beginning when she was just 13 years old. Text messages presented during an evidentiary hearing indicate that the relationship ended amicably following Rivas Hernandez’s threats to disclose details regarding the nature of their association.
In a surprising turn of events, Burke recently dismissed his legal counsel and sought representation from public defenders. This decision has sparked criticism from the victim’s family attorney, who opined that Burke’s celebrity status should not exempt him from facing the full weight of the law without public funding. The attorney expressed concern that taxpayers in Los Angeles County would unjustly bear the financial burden of defending an individual with significant financial resources.
As this case progresses through the judicial system, it underscores ongoing societal debates regarding justice, the legal rights of the accused, and the fiscal implications of providing legal defense. The family’s plea for justice remains at the forefront, serving as a stark reminder of the personal tragedies that often lie behind high-profile criminal cases.
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