Court hears new evidence in D4vd murder proceedings

Prosecutors presented text messages between singer D4vd and 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez during a Los Angeles court hearing, as the preliminary proceedings continued in the murder case against the artist.

Prosecutors present text exchanges

During Friday's hearing, prosecutors showed messages allegedly exchanged between David Anthony Burke, who performs as D4vd, and Rivas Hernandez.

According to courtroom testimony, the conversations included discussions about pregnancy, abortion, birth control and their relationship.

Investigators allege the messages were exchanged while the teenager was underage.

Detective outlines digital evidence

Los Angeles Police Department Detective Corey Farell testified that investigators recovered numerous text messages and images from Burke's phone.

The detective also told the court that additional digital evidence formed part of the prosecution's case.

The testimony prompted an emotional reaction from the victim's mother, who later left the courtroom.

Prosecution outlines timeline

Prosecutors allege Burke first communicated with Rivas Hernandez in 2022 and that a sexual relationship began the following year, when she was 13 and he was 18.

They further allege the teenager was killed in April 2025 after an argument, days before the release of Burke's debut album.

Medical examiner testifies

The court also heard testimony from a deputy medical examiner, who said the teenager died from two stab wounds and ruled the death a homicide.

Due to the condition of the remains, the examiner said it was not possible to determine the type of weapon used.

Burke denies charges

Burke has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including murder and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

The preliminary hearing is continuing as the court considers whether there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial.