Newly revealed text messages presented in court suggest that Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the 14-year-old girl allegedly murdered by singer D4vd, had experienced a pregnancy and undergone an abortion prior to her death. The messages were a key focus during a preliminary hearing aimed at determining if the artist, legally known as David Anthony Burke, will face trial for the teen’s killing last year.

Prosecutors presented exchanges from June 2024, where Celeste, then 13, texted Burke, then 19, about the potential failure of a previous abortion. The messages indicated a shared concern about their ability to care for a child, with Celeste stating, “neither of us are capable of watching and taking care of the baby. it’s for the best no?”. Burke’s response, inquiring about paternity, and Celeste’s affirmation, “of course its yours David”, were also highlighted. Further texts from June 2024 allegedly show Burke writing, “Let’s let this abortion be the last one til we have the real one…”, suggesting a disturbing pattern of communication regarding their relationship and her reproductive health.

The court also heard details about the timeline of their relationship, with prosecutors presenting iCloud data from Burke’s iPhone showing communications dating back to August 2022, when Celeste was 11 and Burke was 17. Detective Corey Farell testified that the device contained photos of the teenager, which prosecutors allege are evidence of sexual abuse. The victim’s mother expressed significant distress as these details were disclosed. Evidence presented also included DNA from blood found in Burke’s home matching Celeste’s, and details of their plans to move in together under the moniker “Operation Awesome”.

Burke, who gained fame through viral hits on TikTok, was reportedly on tour when Celeste’s body was discovered in the trunk of his Tesla in September 2025, the day after she would have turned 15. He faces multiple charges, including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of remains. The defense has questioned the timeline of death, suggesting the possibility of self-harm, while prosecutors maintain Burke met Celeste online and began abusing her when she was 13.

Key Takeaways

• Text messages indicate the alleged victim in the D4vd murder case was pregnant and had an abortion before her death.
• Prosecutors presented evidence of communications between D4vd (David Anthony Burke) and the 14-year-old victim dating back to when she was 11.
• The singer faces multiple serious charges, including murder and continuous sexual abuse of a child, with a preliminary hearing underway to determine if he will stand trial.

Editor’s Analysis & Impact

This case delves into deeply disturbing allegations surrounding the relationship between a rising music artist and a minor, with new evidence focusing on the victim’s reproductive history. The revelation of pregnancy and abortion adds a complex and tragic layer to the ongoing legal proceedings. The prosecution’s strategy appears to be building a case that demonstrates a pattern of abuse and control over an extended period, using digital communications and forensic evidence. The defense’s attempt to introduce doubt regarding the timeline of death highlights the critical nature of forensic evidence and expert testimony in such sensitive cases. The outcome of this preliminary hearing will significantly impact the trajectory of the legal battle and could have broader implications for how such cases involving alleged abuse of minors and digital evidence are handled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is D4vd?
A: D4vd, legally known as David Anthony Burke, is a singer who gained significant popularity through viral hits on platforms like TikTok, such as 'Romantic Homicide' and 'Here With Me'.

Q: What are the main charges against David Anthony Burke?
A: David Anthony Burke faces seven criminal charges, including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of remains.

Q: When was Celeste Rivas Hernandez reported missing and when was her body found?
A: Celeste Rivas Hernandez was reported missing by her family and last seen at Burke's home on April 3, 2025. Her remains were discovered in the front boot of his Tesla on September 4, 2025, the day after she would have turned 15.