Prosecutors allege a brutal attempt to destroy evidence unfolded after a teenage girl’s killing, with a chainsaw used to dismember her body, according to newly filed court documents. David Anthony Burke, the 21-year-old recording artist known professionally as D4vd, is accused of killing 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez and then attempting to conceal the crime through extensive mutilation. The allegations were detailed in a filing made public Wednesday by Los Angeles County prosecutors.
According to the document, Burke used a chainsaw to dismember the victim after fatally stabbing her. Prosecutors further allege he amputated two of the girl’s fingers in an effort to remove a tattoo that linked her to him, describing the act as part of a calculated attempt to cover his tracks.
Burke faces multiple felony charges, including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a minor, and mutilation of a corpse. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Authorities previously arrested Burke at a residence in the Hollywood Hills earlier this month. Prosecutors contend the killing was motivated by fear of exposure, alleging that Hernandez had threatened to reveal an ongoing abusive relationship that could have damaged his music career.
The case has drawn significant attention due to Burke’s public profile and the severity of the allegations. Court proceedings remain ongoing in Los Angeles County Superior Court, where additional evidence is expected to be presented as the case develops.
No trial date has been announced. If convicted, Burke could face life in prison.
