Mass incarceration cases like this one hit differently when they involve young victims. Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s parents are asking prosecutors to pursue the harshest possible punishment against D4vd if he is convicted in their daughter’s killing. Their plea comes just before a painful milestone for the family—Celeste would have turned 16 this month.
The singer, whose legal name is David Burke, has been charged in connection with Celeste’s death after her remains were discovered inside a Tesla registered to him at a Hollywood tow yard in September 2025. The family told the California Post they believe the death penalty would be “perfect” for Burke, describing the devastation they say he caused. “That’s not in our hands, but rather in God’s, and the California justice system,” the family continued. You can read more about mass incarceration cases and their impact on families navigating the legal system.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman is still deciding whether his office will seek capital punishment or life imprisonment if Burke is found guilty. Hochman has said death penalty decisions will be reserved for “exceedingly rare cases” and made only after a comprehensive review, with surviving family members allowed to weigh in on the outcome.
Celeste’s parents have already endured difficult moments in court while closely following the case. Burke is accused of first-degree murder and sexual assault. Tuesday will mark one year since Celeste’s remains were discovered.
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