American singer-songwriter David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd, has been arrested in Los Angeles on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl, as his legal team strongly denies any involvement.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, homicide detectives took the 21-year-old artist into custody as part of an ongoing investigation into the killing of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Authorities said the case will be presented to prosecutors, who will determine whether formal charges should be filed.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office confirmed it is reviewing the case but noted that no charges have yet been filed.
In a statement, Burke’s attorneys — Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter — asserted his innocence, emphasizing that he has only been detained on suspicion. They stated that available evidence would show Burke was not responsible for the girl’s death and vowed to vigorously defend him.
The case stems from a disturbing discovery made in September, when the decomposed body of Rivas Hernandez was found inside a Tesla vehicle registered to Burke. The car had been towed from the Hollywood Hills after appearing abandoned for an extended period.
Rivas Hernandez, who had been reported missing in 2024 from Lake Elsinore, California, was 14 at the time of her death, according to court records. Her remains were discovered a day after what would have been her 15th birthday.
Investigators had been quietly building the case for months through a grand jury probe, which came to light earlier this year when Burke’s family challenged subpoenas requiring them to testify.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed key details about how the victim died or what evidence directly links Burke to the killing. The singer is currently being held without bail as the investigation continues.
The arrest marks a dramatic development for the rising alt-pop artist, whose career has gained international attention in recent years. Legal proceedings in the coming days are expected to determine whether prosecutors will move forward with formal charges.
