US musician D4vd has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered last year in a vehicle registered to him.
The artiste, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, entered the plea through his lawyers during his arraignment on Monday in a Los Angeles court. He did not speak in court and is yet to appear before a judge since his arrest last week.
Burke, 21, is facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder with special circumstances of lying in wait, murder for financial gain, and murder of a witness to an investigation, according to prosecutors.
The case centres on the disappearance of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was last seen in April 2025 after reportedly visiting Burke’s residence in the Hollywood Hills. Prosecutors say she was never seen again.
Her decomposing remains were later found in September 2025 inside the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke at a location in Texas. Court documents indicate the remains were severely decomposed at the time of discovery.
During proceedings, prosecutors alleged that the teenager’s death may be linked to attempts to protect the artiste’s music career, which they claim she could have posed a threat to. They also referenced allegations that she was a witness in an investigation involving Burke.
Burke’s legal team has strongly denied the allegations, insisting that evidence will show he did not cause the girl’s death. His lawyers have pledged to mount a vigorous defence.
The defence also pressed for an open hearing following earlier grand jury proceedings held behind closed doors. The court has since ordered the release of the coroner’s report, which had previously been restricted from public access.
The family of the deceased has expressed their intention to pursue justice, saying they remain committed to ensuring their daughter’s memory is honoured throughout the legal process.
Authorities say the case has been complicated by the condition of the remains and the passage of time between the disappearance and discovery, which affected available evidence.
The trial has been adjourned, with further proceedings expected as investigations continue.
Burke, who rose to fame through social media and music streaming platforms, had cancelled his world tour following his arrest and remains in custody.
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