RismadarVoice Reporters, August 31, 2026
Singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, has parted ways with his defence lawyers and chosen to be represented by public defenders in his high-profile murder case, a decision made during a court hearing in Los Angeles on Monday, surprising those present as his previous legal team withdrew from the case.
Following a private meeting between the lawyers and Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo, defence attorney Blair Berk informed the court that Burke wanted to proceed with a public defender.
When Judge Olmedo directly asked Burke whether that was his decision, he replied, “Yes.”
The development came during what was expected to be a routine pre-trial hearing. Burke is accused of killing 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in the trunk of a Tesla that had been impounded in Los Angeles.
Judge Olmedo entered a not-guilty plea on Burke’s behalf and scheduled the next court appearance for October 19.
At the end of Monday’s hearing, Burke smiled and shook hands with Berk and Regina Peter, his former attorneys, before leaving the courtroom.
The 21-year-old singer was ordered to stand trial on July 27 after prosecutors presented evidence during a preliminary hearing linking him to the death of Rivas Hernandez.
Burke was arrested on April 16 at a residence on Marmont Avenue in the Hollywood Hills, according to Los Angeles police.
The case dates back to September 8, 2025, when police discovered the remains of Rivas Hernandez in the trunk of a Tesla at a Hollywood towing facility. Officers were alerted after reports of a foul smell coming from the vehicle.
Prosecutors have presented text messages exchanged between Burke and Rivas Hernandez as part of the evidence in the case. The messages indicate that the teenager became pregnant at 13 and later had an abortion.
In one exchange from January 2024, Burke allegedly apologised to Rivas Hernandez for “putting her through this.”
Burke has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is expected to face trial as the legal proceedings continue.
The case has attracted significant public attention because of Burke’s status as a recording artist and the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death.
The case remains ongoing, and the allegations against Burke have not been proven in court.
