US singer and TikTok personality D4vd has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a 14-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered last year, authorities have confirmed.
The 21-year-old artist, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, was taken into custody by the Los Angeles Police Department and is currently being held without bail, according to reports by BBC News.
Police said the case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s office as investigations continue.
In a statement, authorities disclosed that Burke was arrested “for the murder of Celeste Rivas,” following months of investigation that began after the teenager’s remains were found in a vehicle linked to him.
The case first came to light after officials responded to reports of a foul odour emanating from a Tesla vehicle that had been towed to a Hollywood yard.
Court documents revealed that investigators discovered the decomposed head and torso of the teenager inside a cadaver bag in the car’s front compartment. The vehicle was reportedly registered to an address associated with Burke in Texas.
Medical officials described the remains as “severely decomposed,” noting that the victim may have been dead for several weeks before being found. However, authorities have yet to determine an official cause of death.
The investigation initially began as a death inquiry, with key details withheld. A judge later ordered the teen’s death records sealed in November to allow forensic experts complete their findings before public disclosure.
Rivas Hernandez, who lived about 75 miles from where her body was discovered, had been reported missing by her family two years earlier. While she had previously left home on multiple occasions, authorities said her disappearance gained renewed urgency after the discovery of the remains.
The investigation intensified in December when a Los Angeles grand jury began hearing evidence, identifying Burke as a key suspect.
“The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in a case that has remained unresolved for months,” a law enforcement source familiar with the investigation said.
Additional court filings indicate that Burke could face one count of murder. Investigators also disclosed that the victim was found wearing a tube top, black leggings, and jewellery, including a stud earring and chain bracelet. She also had a tattoo reading “Shhh…” on her finger — similar to one worn by the singer.
The case has sparked widespread attention online, with speculation surrounding a possible link between the victim and the musician, who rose to fame with songs such as Romantic Homicide.
Following the discovery, Burke cancelled his world tour, withdrew from public appearances, and reportedly lost several brand partnerships. His representatives ранее stated that he was cooperating with investigators, though the singer has not publicly addressed the allegations.
Authorities say investigations remain ongoing.
