New testimony presented in a Los Angeles courtroom has revealed a series of online purchases prosecutors say were made by singer David Anthony Burke, professionally known as D4vd, in the days following the disappearance of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
The evidence was introduced during a preliminary hearing, where prosecutors are seeking to establish that sufficient evidence exists for the criminal case to proceed to trial. Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges and denies the allegations against him.
Detective Details Purchase History
LAPD Detective Joshua Byers testified that investigators reviewed Burke’s online purchase history after the teenager disappeared in April 2025.
According to the detective, Burke allegedly ordered a number of items over several days, including two cadaver bags, a shovel, three chainsaws, a blue inflatable pool, heavy-duty laundry bags, and cleaning supplies. Investigators testified that one chainsaw ordered through a delivery service has never been recovered. Prosecutors argue the purchases are consistent with their timeline of events.
Prosecutors Outline Their Theory
According to prosecutors, Rivas Hernandez disappeared after visiting Burke’s Hollywood Hills home.
The prosecution alleges Burke later attempted to conceal evidence and ultimately left her remains inside his Tesla, which was later impounded. Detectives eventually discovered the remains after workers reported a strong odor coming from the vehicle. Prosecutors also allege the purchases were made shortly after the teenager’s disappearance and were intended to assist in concealing evidence.
Defense Maintains Innocence
Burke has denied every allegation filed against him.
His attorney has argued that prosecutors’ version of events is not supported by the actual evidence and has maintained that the defense intends to challenge the state’s case throughout the legal process.
At this stage, the court has not determined guilt or innocence. The purpose of the preliminary hearing is solely to decide whether sufficient evidence exists for the case to move forward to trial.
Hearing Continues
The preliminary hearing is expected to continue over several days, with prosecutors calling additional witnesses and presenting further evidence.
If the judge determines that probable cause exists, the case will proceed to trial, where a jury would ultimately decide the outcome. Until then, Burke remains presumed innocent under the law unless proven guilty in court.
