Murder case: D4vd's team pushes for public release of evidence
What's the story
The legal team of singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, is demanding that prosecutors publicly present their evidence against him in the murder case of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The request comes as Burke prepares for a court hearing on Thursday, just days after he was charged and pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. The girl was found dead in his Tesla car last September.
Defense strategy
Burke's legal team invokes rare California law
Burke's legal team is invoking a rare California law that allows a judge to decide within 10 court days of arraignment if there's enough evidence for a trial. Lead defense attorney Blair Berk told a judge on Monday, "We believe the actual evidence will show David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez." Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman responded by saying the prosecution would be "very happy" to present its evidence.
Evidence revealed
Autopsy report states cause of death was penetrating wounds
A significant piece of evidence was made public on Wednesday with the release of Hernandez's autopsy report by the LA County Medical Examiner's Office. The report stated that her death was caused by two penetrating wounds to the upper body. Burke (21), who is currently being held without bail, has also pleaded not guilty to charges of lewd and lascivious acts with a person under 14 and mutilating a dead body.
Family's statement
Hernandez's parents demand justice for their daughter
Hernandez's parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, publicly spoke about their daughter's death on Tuesday. They described her as "a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance," adding, "We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us." "We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste."
Career details
Burke is known for his hit song 'Romantic Homicide'
Burke is known for his unique blend of indie rock, R&B, and lo-fi pop music. He gained fame on TikTok in 2022 with his hit song Romantic Homicide. His debut EP Petals to Thorns was released in 2023. The murder charge against him includes special circumstances of lying in wait, killing a witness to an investigation, and for financial gain to maintain his "lucrative" career.