Singer D4vd Accused of Murder; Texts Reveal Teen Victim’s Pregnancy
New evidence presented in a Los Angeles court suggests the 14-year-old girl allegedly murdered by singer D4vd had been pregnant and undergone an abortion prior to her death.
Text messages between the artist, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, and Celeste Rivas Hernandez were revealed during a preliminary hearing to determine if Burke will stand trial for her killing last year.
Pregnancy and Abortion Discussed in Messages
Texts presented by prosecutors indicated that Celeste, who was 13 at the time, discussed abortion with Burke, then 19, in June 2024. In one exchange, Celeste texted, “What [if] the first abortion didn’t work?” According to testimony from a detective, Burke responded by asking, “also my mother always told me to ask this question if I was ever in this situation … it is mine right?” Celeste replied, “of course its yours David.” Another text from Burke in June 2024 read, “Let’s let this abortion be the last one til we have the real one…”
Timeline of Relationship and Allegations
Los Angeles police Detective Corey Farell testified that iCloud data recovered from Burke’s iPhone showed communications with Celeste dating back to August 2022, when she was 11 and he was 17.
The court also heard about plans for the pair to move in together, which they referred to as “Operation Awesome.” Although they reportedly “broke up” in November 2024, they remained in contact. Prosecutors claim the two argued the night before Celeste’s death, allegedly over Burke’s other relationships.
Discovery of Remains and Burke’s Arrest
Celeste was reported missing by her family and was last seen at Burke’s home on April 3, 2025.
DNA evidence from blood found in Burke’s Hollywood Hills home and garage was confirmed to be a match for Celeste, according to Detective Farell. D4vd, known for his viral hits “Romantic Homicide” and “Here With Me,” was on tour when Celeste’s body was found. His tour was subsequently canceled, and he largely withdrew from public life. Police announced Burke’s arrest in April of this year.
Charges Filed Against Burke
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman has filed seven criminal charges against Burke, including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of remains. The pre-trial hearing is ongoing, with testimony expected to resume on Monday.
