The star, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, has become the subject of a grand jury investigation in connection with the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in his Tesla in September. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed on Thursday that the 21-year-old is being held without bail. The case is expected to be presented to the district attorney’s office on Monday for review.
In a statement released to US media, Burke’s legal team strongly denied the allegations, saying: “Let us be clear — the evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not responsible for her death.” They added that no grand jury indictment has been issued and no formal criminal charges have been filed, stating that Burke is currently only being detained on suspicion.Police had earlier announced that Burke was arrested on suspicion of murder in relation to Rivas Hernandez’s death.
He reportedly surrendered in Hollywood on Thursday evening and was later processed into jail several hours afterward, according to official records.Images released by the LAPD showed armed officers from specialist units carrying out the arrest at a residential property in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office confirmed it is aware of the arrest and is expected to receive the case file on Monday. Prosecutors will then decide whether there is enough evidence to proceed with formal charges.
Authorities also noted that a legal update is expected on Monday following the review. Burke may or may not appear in court depending on the decision reached. Under detention rules, he must be formally charged or released within 48 hours, excluding weekends and public holidays. The case began after the remains of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez were discovered on 8 September in a Hollywood tow yard, following reports of a strong odor coming from a vehicle. Investigators said her decomposed remains were found inside a cadaver bag in the front trunk of a Tesla registered to an address linked to Burke in Texas.
The medical examiner later confirmed the body was severely decomposed and said the cause of death could not immediately be determined, noting she may have been dead for several weeks before discovery. No official cause of death has been released, and the case has remained under investigation for months.Authorities also obtained a court order sealing parts of the death records to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Rivas Hernandez, who lived in Southern California, had been reported missing months earlier, though she had previously run away from home before her disappearance. Her death has drawn widespread attention online, with speculation surrounding her connection to the singer, though investigators have not confirmed any relationship. A grand jury began hearing evidence in the case late last year, but Thursday’s arrest marks the first major development in months.
Court filings also indicated that Burke was identified as a “target” of the investigation and could face a murder charge if prosecutors proceed. His father was previously called to testify before the grand jury as part of the ongoing proceedings. Burke’s representatives have maintained that he has been cooperating with authorities and has not been formally charged. Further details revealed in court documents noted identifying marks and personal items linked to the victim, which investigators say are part of the evidence being reviewed.
Rivas Hernandez’s family had earlier described her as a beloved daughter and launched a fundraiser following her disappearance, expressing deep grief over her loss.Burke, who rose to fame through music and social media, is known for tracks that gained popularity on streaming platforms and for building a large online following. Following the discovery of the body, he cancelled scheduled public appearances and largely withdrew from public view as the investigation progressed.He has also faced professional fallout, including the suspension of brand partnerships and collaborations as the case continues to unfold.
