LOS ANGELES (TCN) — The family of teen Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was found dead in a Tesla belonging to singer D4vd last year, has released a statement calling for him to receive the death penalty.
In April, 21-year-old David Burke, known professionally as D4vd, was charged with murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains in connection with Rivas Hernandez’s death. Prosecutors allege he killed Rivas Hernandez when she threatened to expose his behavior and ruin his music career. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
KTLA reports Rivas Hernandez’s family released a statement through their attorney on what would have been their daughter’s 16th birthday. It reads, “If the death penalty were activated, it would be perfect for this kind of human being, devoid of feelings and emptiness inside, and without conscience, who only caused pain to our daughter, our family, and the world that supports our precious daughter.”
The statement goes on to say, “Today we are experiencing so many emotions, praying and singing ‘Happy Birthday,’ reliving unforgettable moments even though she is no longer here,” LA Mag reports. “These are feelings that only a father and mother and her siblings can share, with a heavy heart. … We will always remember every moment and every good time we spent with Celestita!”
Burke, who remains behind bars without bail, is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 19 for a status conference, according to KTLA. His trial could potentially begin within 90 days of that hearing.
Rivas Hernandez’s obituary remembers her as “far more than the public attention that later surrounded her name. She was a daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, and friend with dreams, humor, and a future still unfolding. Community members remembered seeing her walking through the neighborhood with friends, stopping at local stores after school, laughing easily, and carrying herself with a calm and caring spirit.
“In the wake of her disappearance and death, vigils and memorials brought together people from across the community who mourned not only the tragedy of her loss, but the loss of the life she still had ahead of her.”
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