In brief
Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s parents call for the death penalty against D4vd, the singer accused of killing their daughter after her dismembered remains were found in a Tesla. D4vd pleaded not guilty, and California’s temporary death‑penalty ban makes prosecution difficult. In addition to a criminal case, the parents have filed a civil suit for damages and claim a sexual relationship that led to murder. A judge found probable cause for a murder trial, and the singer’s legal team has withdrawn, now facing a public defender. The family hopes execution would punish the offender and honour their daughter.
The family of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has demanded the death penalty for D4vd, the musician accused of killing their daughter when her dismembered body was found in a Tesla owned by his address. D4vd – born David Anthony Burke – pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.
California currently has a temporary ban on the death penalty, but the family’s statement says execution would be “perfect” for a perpetrator who “caused pain to our daughter, our family, and the world.”
In addition to the criminal case, Celeste’s parents filed a civil lawsuit seeking damages for burial and funeral expenses, and they allege abuse, including a sexual relationship that began when Celeste was 13.
A judge in July found probable cause for a murder trial, and the district attorney was weighing whether to seek the death penalty. D4vd’s famous lawyers withdrew, and he is now represented by a public defender, scheduled to return to court on 19 October.
The family’s attorney said the legal team is committed to providing a careful defense, while the court remains cautious about the civil suit’s claims of exploitation and negligence.
