Defense Questions DNA Testing in Teen Murder Case
In Los Angeles, lawyers for indie-pop singer D4vd (David Burke) are questioning the extent of DNA testing conducted on chain saws and his car, which are central to the case involving the alleged murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The…
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, July 23, 2026 —
In Los Angeles, the defense team for indie-pop singer D4vd, identified as David Burke, has raised questions regarding the scope of DNA testing performed on items central to the case, including chain saws and his vehicle, in connection with the alleged murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
The defense is specifically scrutinizing why “touch DNA” was not pursued on chain saws discovered in Burke’s garage. While initial forensic tests on these items reportedly did not detect blood, the defense suggests that the absence of touch DNA analysis leaves open the possibility that DNA from other individuals could be present on the tools.
David Burke has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges against him, which include murder, sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of a body. The case details presented by prosecutors allege that Burke initiated a sexual relationship with Rivas Hernandez when she was 13 years old and he was 18. According to the prosecution’s narrative, Rivas Hernandez allegedly threatened to expose this relationship, which subsequently led to her death. Her body was reportedly concealed in Burke’s Tesla.
The ongoing legal proceedings are expected to further examine the forensic evidence and the methodologies employed in its collection and analysis. The extent and nature of the DNA testing on the chain saws and Burke’s vehicle remain a focal point for the defense as they prepare their case.
Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.
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