D4vd case explained: The allegations, evidence and latest developments in Celeste Rivas case

A year after Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s remains were discovered inside a Tesla linked to singer D4vd, the case has entered a critical new phase. David Anthony Burke, who performs as D4vd, is facing murder and other charges and has pleaded not guilty. His prominent defense lawyers have since withdrawn, his family is pursuing a civil case, and prosecutors continue to present serious allegations that Burke disputes.What prosecutors allege in the D4vd and Celeste Rivas caseThe case began attracting national attention in September 2025, when Celeste’s remains were found in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke’s address. Prosecutors later alleged that Celeste had gone to Burke’s Hollywood Hills home in April 2025 and that he killed her there.Those claims became central during a preliminary hearing in July. Prosecutors presented messages, photographs and other evidence as they argued that Burke had been involved with Celeste while she was underage. A judge subsequently ruled that there was enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial. Burke has maintained his not-guilty plea.Prosecutors have also alleged that Celeste threatened to expose her relationship with Burke shortly before her death. They have argued that this gave Burke a possible motive for the killing.The defense has challenged that narrative. Burke’s lawyers previously argued that prosecutors had no eyewitness or camera footage showing Celeste entering his home during the period in which they allege she was killed. Those arguments form part of the defense case as the proceedings move forward.D4vd’s lawyers withdraw as Celeste’s family seeks death penaltyOne of the biggest recent developments came at the end of August, when Burke’s high-profile legal team withdrew from the case. Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Peter were replaced by attorneys from the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office after the court determined Burke qualified for appointed counsel. No specific reason for the withdrawal was publicly given.Burke entered another not-guilty plea and is now represented by a public defender. His next scheduled court proceeding is October 19, while the trial is expected to take place later.The case has also moved into civil court. Celeste’s parents, Mercedes Martinez and Jesus Rivas, have filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Burke and several people connected to him. The lawsuit alleges that others enabled or facilitated the relationship between Burke and Celeste. Those claims are separate from the criminal case and remain allegations.As the anniversary of Celeste’s death approached, her parents publicly called for the death penalty if Burke is convicted. They said:“If the death penalty were activated, it would be perfect for this kind of human being, devoid of feelings and emptiness inside, and without conscience, who only caused pain to our daughter, our family, and the world that supports our precious daughter,”The decision on whether prosecutors will seek capital punishment rests with Los Angeles County authorities, not the family.For now, Burke remains in custody while the criminal case moves toward trial. The allegations against him have not been proven in court, and the proceedings will determine how prosecutors’ evidence and the defense’s challenges are ultimately weighed.Catch the latest World News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.