The musician known as D4vd was arrested on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in connection with the death of a missing teenage girl whose severely decomposed body was found in the trunk of his Tesla, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
The singer, whose real name is David Burke, was taken into custody in Hollywood around 4:30 p.m. He is being held without bail, and the case is expected to be presented to prosecutors on Monday, April 20.
Who Is D4vd?
David Burke, 21, is a rising star in the music industry. Known professionally as D4vd (pronounced “David”), he has built a massive following on social media and music streaming platforms.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Real name | David Burke |
| Age | 21 |
| Stage name | D4vd |
| Claim to fame | Created the anthem for Fortnite |
| Major debut | Album Withered (2025) |
| Notable tour | Opening slot on SZA’s SOS Tour |
His major-label debut, Withered, was released last year, and he was seen as one of the most promising young artists in his genre. The arrest has sent shockwaves through his fanbase and the broader music industry.
The Discovery of Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s Remains
The case first gained public attention in September 2025, when authorities announced they had discovered human remains in a car registered to Burke.
Key details from that discovery:
- Location of car: Left on a public street in Los Angeles for weeks
- How it was found: The car was towed to an impound lot
- Stolen status: The car had not been reported stolen
- Date remains found: September 8, 2025
- Date significance: One day after what would have been the victim’s 15th birthday
The remains were identified as those of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was 13 years old when she was reported missing from her home in Lake Elsinore, California – about 70 miles southeast of Los Angeles.
The Investigation – What We Know
The LAPD has been investigating the case for months. Several key details have emerged:
Travel to Santa Barbara
Police have evidence showing that Burke traveled north to the Santa Barbara area sometime in the spring of 2025. Investigators have not explained why this trip is relevant to the case.
Tour Schedule
Burke had begun a North American tour on August 5, 2025. He had several performances in the Midwest the same week his car was towed. After the remains were found, several remaining concerts were canceled.
Medical Examiner’s Findings
When the remains were first discovered, the Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office had not determined the cause or manner of death. The office noted that Celeste was:
| Descriptor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | 71 pounds |
| Hair | Wavy black |
| Clothing | Tube top and small black leggings |
Security Hold on Records
On November 24, 2025, the medical examiner’s office announced that it had been barred from publicly releasing information about the case after the LAPD obtained a court order to place a “security hold” on it.
“No records or details associated with the case, including the cause and manner of death and medical examiner report, can be released until further notice,” the office stated.
Criticism of the Hold
The move was criticized by the chief medical examiner, Dr. Odey C. Ukpo, who said he had “worked on eradicating the practice of placing security holds on medical examiner cases simply by law enforcement request.” Police officials said they sought the hold to ensure investigators received details before the public.
D4vd’s Arrest and Legal Response
Burke was arrested on April 16, 2026, around 4:30 p.m. in Hollywood. Captain Scot Williams of the LAPD confirmed the arrest, and police stated that Burke is being held without bail.
Lawyers’ Statement
In a statement released shortly after the arrest, Burke’s lawyers – Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski, and Regina Peter – emphasized that he has been detained but not yet charged with a crime.
“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 lawyers said.
They added: “We will vigorously defend David’s innocence.”
District Attorney’s Office
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement that it was aware of the arrest and expects the case to be presented to the Major Crimes Division.
“Prosecutors will review the facts and evidence to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to file charges,” the office said.
The Victim – Celeste Rivas Hernandez
Celeste Rivas Hernandez was just 13 years old when she was reported missing from her home in Lake Elsinore, California. Her body was found on September 8, 2025 – one day after what would have been her 15th birthday.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age at disappearance | 13 |
| Age at remains discovery | 14 (would have turned 15 the next day) |
| Hometown | Lake Elsinore, CA (70 miles southeast of LA) |
| Reported missing | 2024 |
Repeated efforts by The New York Times to reach Celeste’s family members have been unsuccessful.
What Happens Next?
The case is now at a critical juncture. The next steps include:
- Presentation to prosecutors – The case will be presented to the Major Crimes Division on Monday, April 20
- Charge decision – Prosecutors will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to file formal charges
- Bail hearing – Burke is currently being held without bail; a hearing may determine if that changes
- Medical examiner records – The security hold may be lifted or challenged
Burke’s lawyers have indicated they will fight any charges vigorously, and they have already signaled that their defense will focus on the actual evidence – which they claim will exonerate their client.
Public Reaction and Industry Impact
The arrest has stunned fans and the music industry. D4vd was seen as a rising star with a bright future. His association with Fortnite and his opening slot on SZA’s tour had positioned him for mainstream success.
Fan Reactions
Social media has been flooded with reactions ranging from shock to support for the singer:
- “I can’t believe this. I’ve been listening to D4vd for years.”
- “Innocent until proven guilty. Let the investigation finish.”
- “My heart breaks for Celeste’s family. No parent should have to go through this.”
Industry Fallout
- Remaining tour dates were canceled after the remains were found in September 2025
- Streaming platforms have not yet taken action, but that could change if charges are filed
- Brand partnerships (including Fortnite) are likely under review
A Tragic Case with Many Unanswered Questions
The arrest of D4vd marks a dramatic escalation in a case that has captivated the public since September 2025. A young rising star. A teenage girl whose remains were found in his car. A months-long investigation. And now, an arrest – but no charges yet.
The coming days will be crucial. Prosecutors will decide whether to file charges. The medical examiner’s security hold may be challenged. And Burke’s legal team has promised a vigorous defense.
For now, the case remains shrouded in mystery. What is clear is that two young lives have been irrevocably altered – one lost, one now fighting to prove his innocence.
As the LAPD and District Attorney’s office continue their work, the public will be watching closely. And Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s family – wherever they are – will be waiting for answers.
