Los angeles: Text messages between singer D4vd, legally known as David Anthony Burke, and the 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whom he is accused of murdering, have unveiled allegations of her pregnancy and subsequent abortion prior to her death. The revelations emerged during a hearing to decide if Burke should face trial for the alleged murder that occurred last year.
According to Ghana Web, the court was presented with messages showing Celeste, just 13 at the time, questioning Burke in June 2024 about the effectiveness of her abortion. Prosecutors allege that Burke, then 19, killed her to prevent her from disclosing his alleged sexual abuse and potentially ending his career. Burke has denied charges of murder and sexual abuse.
In January 2024, Burke expressed remorse to Celeste for the situation she was in, as revealed by court-displayed messages. Celeste replied expressing doubts about their capability to care for a child. Evidence presented included a text from June 2024 where Burke suggested, "Let's let this abortion be the last one til we have the real one."
Prosecutors showcased iCloud data from Burke's iPhone, detailing communications with Celeste dating back to August 2022, when she was 11 and he 17. The device also contained photos allegedly documenting sexual abuse, as detailed by Detective Corey Farell. The victim's mother, Mercedes Rivas Hernandez, departed the courtroom emotionally as graphic details were discussed.
Conversations about a potential future together, termed "Operation Awesome," were found on Burke's phone. Despite a breakup in November 2024, the pair maintained contact, with alleged disputes over Burke's other relationships occurring before her death.
Dr. Grant Ho, conducting the post-mortem, testified on the challenges of pinpointing Celeste's time of death due to decomposition. The defense questioned the possibility of self-harm, while Detective Farrell confirmed Celeste's blood was found in Burke's home.
D4vd, recognized for his TikTok success with songs like Romantic Homicide and Here With Me, was arrested in April this year. His international tour was aborted after Celeste's body was discovered in the boot of his Tesla in September 2025. The Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, has filed multiple charges, including murder and continuous child abuse. Celeste had been reported missing by her family, last seen at Burke's residence in April 2025.
Prosecutors claim Burke initiated online contact with Celeste when she was 11, beginning alleged abuse at age 13. The ongoing pre-trial hearing, now in its fourth day, has also uncovered that Burke introduced Celeste to family members in London and Texas. Testimonies are slated to continue on Monday.