The unsealed filings in the case against singer D4vd outline gruesome allegations that have left the victim’s family in shock
Brutal unsealed court filings in the case against singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, reveal graphic allegations that have left the victim’s family “shocked” and in deep grief, according to a statement released by their attorney.
The filings, submitted as part of pretrial proceedings and unsealed this week, outline what prosecutors describe as an unspeakable and violent killing of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. They allege this was followed by a disturbing effort to dismember and dispose of her body.
Credit: The Rivas Hernandez Family/Patrick Steinfeld
According to a statement from the family’s attorney, Patrick Steinfeld, he acknowledges the allegations include that Burke “stabbed Celeste, stood by while she bled to death, used a chainsaw to cut off her limbs, and bought a ‘burn cage’ with the plan to incinerate the evidence.” Steinfeld said he personally informed the family of the newly detailed claims, calling it “the most difficult thing I’ve had to do in 37 years as a lawyer.”
David Burke Booking PhotoCredit: Los Angeles District Attorney Handout
The unsealed filings, previously reported by Los Angeles, expand on previously reported accusations, alleging Burke purchased tools and materials in the days following the killing and took steps to conceal the crime. Prosecutors have also outlined evidence they say ties those purchases to the alleged dismemberment and disposal of the victim’s remains.
The graphic nature of the allegations has prompted the Rivas Hernandez family to step back from public comment.
“They still have bills to pay and jobs they go to every day. All they want is time to grieve and heal,” Steinfeld said, asking the public to grant the family “grace and compassion.”
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The family had previously been willing to speak publicly during the criminal process, with support from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. However, Steinfeld said the steady release of increasingly disturbing details has changed that decision.
“All future statements will be made through the family’s attorney,” he said.
Burke has been charged in connection with the teen’s death and has pleaded not guilty. The case remains ongoing in Los Angeles County Superior Court, with a pretrial hearing scheduled for May 23.
Los Angeles reached out to Kent Schaffer, the Burke family attorney, who said they would not be providing a comment at this time.