April 24, (THEWILL) — Prosecutors, on Thursday, said a “significant amount” of child sex abuse images was recovered from US singer D4vd’s phone and iCloud account during their investigation into the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
The singer, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, has been charged with first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains.
He pleaded not guilty earlier this week and remains in custody without bail.
Authorities allege he had been sexually abusing the teenager for at least a year before her death and claim he killed her in April 2025 after she threatened to report the relationship.
Rivas Hernandez’s remains were found in September 2025, dismembered inside a Tesla linked to Burke that had been towed from the Hollywood Hills.
An autopsy determined she died from multiple penetrating injuries, though investigators have not disclosed the exact weapon.
Prosecutors say the case involves a large volume of digital and forensic evidence, including phone and cloud data, as well as materials obtained through multiple search warrants.
Burke’s lawyers maintain his innocence, stating they “will vigorously defend David’s innocence” and believe the evidence will show he did not commit the crime.
A preliminary evidentiary hearing is scheduled for 1 May, with additional court proceedings expected next week.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
