Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s Family Issues a Four-Word Statement After D4vd Is Officially Set to Stand Trial
Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s Family Breaks Their Silence With Four Words After D4vd Is Ordered to Stand Trial
The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez has publicly responded for the first time after a judge ruled that singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, will stand trial on multiple felony charges connected to the teenager’s death. Speaking through their attorney following the court’s decision, Celeste’s relatives delivered a brief but emotional four-word statement: “Justice for our daughter.” The message, though simple, reflected years of grief and their determination to see the criminal case proceed through the legal system.
The statement came shortly after the conclusion of a lengthy preliminary hearing in Los Angeles, where prosecutors presented weeks of testimony, digital evidence, forensic findings, and witness accounts. At the end of the hearing, the judge concluded that prosecutors had presented sufficient evidence to establish probable cause, allowing the case to move forward to a jury trial. While the ruling does not determine guilt or innocence, it marks a significant milestone in one of the most closely watched criminal cases involving a young music artist in recent years.
According to prosecutors, investigators have assembled an extensive body of evidence that they believe links Burke to Celeste’s disappearance and death. Among the evidence presented in court were surveillance footage, cellphone records, ride-share data, DNA evidence, internet search history, and thousands of electronic messages exchanged between Burke and Celeste over an extended period. Prosecutors also highlighted the pair’s final text message conversation, arguing that it revealed escalating tension shortly before the teenager allegedly visited Burke’s residence.
Court testimony indicated that Celeste traveled to Burke’s home after the two arranged to meet following a series of emotional text exchanges. Prosecutors allege that she was killed shortly after arriving. They further argued that Burke later attempted to create the appearance that Celeste had never reached the residence by continuing to send text messages and place phone calls to her device after investigators believe she had already died. The prosecution maintains that these actions demonstrate an effort to conceal the alleged crime.
Defense attorneys strongly rejected the prosecution’s interpretation of the evidence throughout the preliminary hearing. They argued that much of the state’s case is based on circumstantial evidence and disputed the conclusion that the digital communications establish premeditation or intent. The defense also questioned aspects of the forensic evidence and maintained that prosecutors have not proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Burke committed the crimes alleged against him. Burke has entered pleas of not guilty to all charges and continues to deny any criminal wrongdoing.
Following the judge’s ruling, Celeste’s attorney addressed reporters gathered outside the courthouse. He said the family had endured unimaginable pain since losing their daughter and had chosen to avoid extensive public comment while the legal proceedings unfolded. However, after learning that the case would proceed to trial, the family wanted the public to know that their focus remains on accountability rather than publicity.
“The family has waited a long time for this moment,” the attorney said. “Their message is simple: Justice for our daughter. They continue to place their faith in the judicial process and hope that all of the evidence will ultimately be presented before a jury.”
Family members declined to answer specific questions from reporters but thanked investigators, prosecutors, victim advocates, and those who have supported them throughout the lengthy investigation. According to the attorney, they intend to attend future court hearings but will continue limiting public statements in order to respect the ongoing legal proceedings.
Legal analysts noted that the decision to bind Burke over for trial does not represent a conviction. Instead, it means the judge found sufficient evidence for a jury to consider the case. During the upcoming trial, prosecutors will be required to prove every element of the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, while the defense will have the opportunity to challenge the credibility and interpretation of the state’s evidence.
As preparations for trial begin, Burke remains in custody without bail. The court is expected to schedule additional pretrial hearings in the coming months before jury selection begins. Meanwhile, Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s family says their brief four-word statement represents everything they have sought since the investigation began: justice for their daughter.
