D4vd's Legal Team Asserts Innocence Following Arrest in Teen's Homicide Case
The legal representatives for singer-songwriter D4vd have publicly declared his innocence after his arrest this week in connection with the high-profile death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The 21-year-old artist, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, was taken into custody on suspicion of murder, though no formal charges have been filed against him as of Friday.
Medical Examiner's Homicide Ruling and Investigation Details
This development follows the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's official determination that Hernandez's manner of death was a homicide. The medical examiner reportedly faced challenges in making this ruling due to the advanced stage of decomposition of the 14-year-old's body when it was discovered in September. Hernandez's dismembered remains were found in the front trunk of an impounded Tesla, which authorities later confirmed belonged to Burke.
The vehicle had been parked at a Hollywood impound lot and was reportedly abandoned while Burke was on tour across North America. People in the area alerted authorities after noticing a foul odor emanating from the car. Burke's subsequent tour was canceled following this discovery.
Legal Defense and Statement from Attorneys
In a strongly worded statement obtained by People magazine, D4vd's attorneys—Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter—asserted that evidence will ultimately prove their client's innocence. '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 legal team declared.
The attorneys emphasized that no indictment has been returned by any grand jury and no criminal complaint has been filed against Burke. They noted that he has only been detained under suspicion and vowed to 'vigorously defend David's innocence.' The Daily Mail has reached out to D4vd's legal representatives for additional comment on the case.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Burke was booked on Thursday and is currently being held without bail. His arrest occurred approximately seven months after the discovery of the vehicle containing Hernandez's body. The Los Angeles Police Department released photographs from the arrest scene showing armed officers from the Robbery-Homicide and Gang and Narcotics divisions conducting a raid on Burke's home.
Since November, D4vd has been the subject of a grand jury investigation into the murder case. The LAPD previously requested a judge to seal the autopsy findings, citing an 'ongoing investigation of murder.' It is believed that the singer was previously in a relationship with the teenager, though this has not been officially confirmed by authorities.
The case continues to develop as investigators gather evidence and the legal process moves forward. D4vd's defense team maintains that their client will be exonerated as more facts come to light in this tragic and complex investigation.
