Singer D4vd Faces Dismemberment Charges

Singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, is facing severe allegations in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas. Prosecutors claim Burke brutally murdered Rivas and then dismembered her body, concealing the remains in his Tesla vehicle.

Details of the Prosecution's Case

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office outlined a disturbing account of the case in a court filing on Wednesday, April 29. The filing details evidence gathered against the 21-year-old artist, alleging a premeditated and violent act.

Arrest and Initial Findings

Burke pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and unlawful mutilation of a human body after his arrest on April 16th. The investigation began with the discovery of Rivas’ remains in the trunk of D4vd’s Tesla in September 2025.

Alleged Motive and Events

The prosecution alleges the murder occurred on April 23, 2025, following a heated argument between D4vd and Rivas over text messages. These messages reportedly revealed Rivas’ distress and jealousy regarding D4vd’s other relationships.

Career Concerns

Prosecutors claim Rivas threatened to expose damaging information about their relationship, potentially harming D4vd’s rising music career. His debut album was scheduled for release on April 25, 2025, and he had already secured product endorsements.

Luring and Attack

The prosecution contends that D4vd lured Rivas to his Hollywood Hills home under the pretense of an Uber ride. Once there, he allegedly stabbed her multiple times, causing her to bleed out. He then allegedly attempted to mislead investigators by contacting Rivas’ phone to feign concern.

Disturbing Details of Body Disposal

The most disturbing allegations involve the dismemberment and disposal of Rivas’ body. Prosecutors assert that D4vd purchased tools, including a body bag, laundry bags, and an inflatable pool, under a false name – Victoria Mendez.

Dismemberment and Concealment

According to the prosecution, D4vd used the inflatable pool to contain blood while dismembering Rivas’ remains in his garage, potentially using a chainsaw. He allegedly amputated her left ring and pinky fingers because her ring finger had a tattoo of his name; these fingers remain unrecovered.

Decomposition in Vehicle

The severed head and torso were placed in a cadaver bag, and the limbs were placed in a garbage bag, both concealed in the Tesla’s trunk. Rivas’ remains reportedly decomposed inside the vehicle for weeks, or possibly months.

Defense and Next Steps

D4vd’s legal team, consisting of Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter, has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting his innocence. They have pledged a vigorous defense. The case is expected to be a complex trial relying on forensic evidence, digital communications, and alleged purchases made by D4vd.