Family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez Speaks Out After Murder Charge Filed Against D4vd
The family of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has issued its first public statement following the formal murder charge brought against singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke. The statement comes days after prosecutors in Los Angeles County announced charges related to the teenager’s death.
In their remarks, the family expressed gratitude to law enforcement authorities, including the Los Angeles Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office, for their work on the case. They also acknowledged the support they have received from the community in Lake Elsinore, California, where Celeste lived.
“Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance,” the family said. They described personal moments shared with her, including weekly movie nights, and emphasized the close bond they maintained. “We love her very much, and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply,” the statement read. The family concluded by underscoring their primary goal as the legal process moves forward: “All we want is justice for Celeste.”
Family members were present at Burke’s court appearance on Monday, April 20, where he faced formal charges. A press conference that had been expected to take place outside the courthouse was ultimately canceled, and the family instead released its statement through their attorney.
The case against Burke includes a charge of first-degree murder with special circumstances, which carries the possibility of life imprisonment and could make the defendant eligible for the death penalty. According to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, the criminal complaint also includes additional charges of sexual acts with a person under the age of 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains.
Prosecutors outlined several special circumstances attached to the murder charge. These include allegations of lying in wait, murder of a witness, and financial gain. Hochman stated that Rivas had been identified as a witness in a separate investigation involving Burke, related to alleged lewd and lascivious acts with a minor. He further indicated that the financial gain element was tied to maintaining Burke’s music career, which prosecutors allege may have been threatened.
Burke was taken into custody on April 16. Following his arrest, his legal team released a statement rejecting the allegations. Attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter said they intend to challenge the charges in court. “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,” the statement read. The attorneys added that they would “vigorously defend” Burke’s innocence as the case proceeds.
The charges come after months of investigation into Rivas’ death, which drew significant attention both locally and nationally. Authorities have not disclosed all details of the evidence gathered, but have indicated that they are prepared to present their case in court.
