D4vd pleads not guilty in murder case tied to missing teen

The rising music artist D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, appeared in court Monday and pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, lewd and lascivious acts with a minor, and mutilating a body. The charges stem from the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were reportedly found in a Tesla linked to Burke. Prosecutors say the case includes special circumstances that could lead to a life sentence without parole if he is convicted.

Burke, who gained fame through dreamy, introspective tracks like 'Romantic Homicide' and 'Here With Me,' has seen his public image upended by the allegations. Once celebrated for his ethereal sound and online virality, the 21-year-old is now at the center of a grim criminal investigation. Court documents suggest investigators found disturbing evidence connecting him to the crime, including digital footprints and forensic data from the vehicle.

The case has taken on broader dimensions following a separate but possibly related discovery in Wilmer, Alabama. Over the weekend, police found three people- a mother, a pregnant 17-year-old, and a 12-year-old boy- dead in a home, their bodies bound and showing signs of extreme violence. While D4vd has not been charged in that incident, law enforcement sources told CBS News they are exploring potential links between the two cases, including shared digital activity and travel patterns.

Celeste Rivas Hernandez had been reported missing days before her body was located. Authorities have not publicly detailed the nature of her relationship with Burke, but the charges suggest a predatory dynamic. The lewd acts charge specifically alleges contact with a child under 14, adding to the severity of the case under California law.

As the legal process moves forward, fans and industry figures have reacted with disbelief. D4vd had been on the cusp of mainstream success, with songs featured in major streaming playlists and rumored collaborations with top producers. His label has paused all promotional activity, and upcoming tour dates have been canceled without explanation.

Local police in both California and Alabama are working with federal investigators, though no additional arrests have been announced. The Alabama killings remain under active investigation, with officials urging the public to come forward with any information about suspicious activity in the area during the week of April 12.

Burke remains in custody without bail. His next court date is scheduled for early May, when prosecutors are expected to present more evidence. For now, a case that began with a missing teenager has spiraled into one of the year's most closely watched criminal investigations- one that blurs the line between online fame and real-world horror.