The criminal case against singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, is moving into its next phase after a Los Angeles judge confirmed that his preliminary hearing will begin on July 21.
During a recent court appearance, both prosecutors and defense attorneys informed the court that they are prepared to move forward with the multi-day hearing. The proceeding will determine whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including first-degree murder, in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors allege the teenager was killed in April 2025 and that her dismembered remains were later discovered in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke after the vehicle was impounded at a Hollywood tow yard.
The preliminary hearing is expected to span several days, during which prosecutors will present key evidence and witness testimony in an effort to convince the judge there is sufficient probable cause to send the case to trial. Unlike a trial, no jury will be present, and the judge alone will decide whether the evidence meets the legal standard to proceed.
The case has drawn widespread national attention since Burke’s arrest earlier this year. Prosecutors have previously indicated they have compiled a substantial amount of evidence as part of the investigation, while Burke’s attorneys have maintained his innocence and continue to challenge the prosecution’s case.
In a separate development, Los Angeles County officials are investigating allegations that employees within the Medical Examiner’s Office improperly accessed and leaked confidential records related to the case before they were publicly released.
If the judge finds enough evidence during the July 21 hearing, Burke will be ordered to stand trial on the charges. The proceedings are expected to provide the public with the most detailed look yet at the evidence prosecutors intend to present against the singer.
