Prosecutors in the murder trial of musician D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, have alleged that his phone contained a 'significant amount' of child pornography. The 21-year-old rapper has been charged with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose body was discovered in the boot of his Tesla in September 2025.
Details of the Charges
Los Angeles County prosecutors formally charged Burke on Monday, and he has since pleaded not guilty. His attorneys have stated they will 'vigorously defend his innocence.' During a press conference, LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman alleged that Burke had engaged in a sexual relationship with the teenager.
On Thursday, prosecutors claimed that Burke possessed a significant amount of child pornography on his phone, according to Rolling Stone. It was not specified whether any of the images depicted the deceased girl. Prosecutors informed the court that they have a computer in the DA's office to handle the sensitive evidence but stated they are unable to turn over the content at this time.
Court Appearance
Burke appeared in court on Thursday, shackled to a chair and wearing an orange prison jumpsuit. He spoke only when asked if he approved that the judge handling his preliminary hearing also manage other cases simultaneously.
Autopsy Results
Officials recently released findings regarding Rivas Hernandez's cause of death. The autopsy results, initially determined in December 2025 but sealed by a court order initiated by the LAPD, revealed that the teenager died from multiple injuries caused by an undisclosed object. The report noted two wounds to her chest and abdomen, which may be consistent with injuries caused by a 'sharp instrument.'
The toxicology report indicated that a follow-up screening found no evidence of MDMA and was inconclusive for methamphetamine. Alcohol may have been present in Rivas Hernandez's system, but it did not contribute to her death. The report also stated that there were significant postmortem changes to the body, including that the teen's head was 'partially skeletonized with an absent left eye.'
When police found Rivas Hernandez's body, it had been dismembered.
Statement from Medical Examiner
On April 22, Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo expressed gratitude that the information could be released, saying, 'After several months, I am grateful this information can now be released, not only to the public, but also to the grieving family enduring loss. It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter.' He emphasized the importance of transparency for community empowerment and prevention.
Family Reaction
Following Burke's arrest, the father of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, Jesus Rivas, expressed his relief, stating through family attorney Patrick Steinfeld, 'Thank God … justice for Celeste.'
