• David Anthony Burke, known professionally as d4vd, appeared in court without handcuffs but remained restrained with a waist chain.
• Throughout the hearing, Burke appeared calm and relaxed, sitting back in his chair.
• As prosecutors displayed graphic crime scene photographs and evidence, Burke kept his eyes fixed on the courtroom monitors and did not appear to look away during the presentation.
• Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman was present in the courtroom, seated in the second row.
• Prosecutors advised the court they expected to call 10 witnesses, including members of the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

First State Witness: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Senior Deputy Juan Gonzalez

• Senior Deputy Juan Gonzalez testified he responded to Burke’s Doheny Drive residence on February 17, 2024, to conduct a welfare check after Riverside County investigators reported 13-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez missing.
• Gonzalez testified Burke told deputies he met Celeste through social media and Discord in 2020 or 2021, had met her in person only once, and believed she was 18 years old because, according to Burke, “she told me she was 18.”
• Burke stated the last time he communicated with Celeste was February 13, 2024.
• Burke stated the last time he saw Celeste in person was November 12, 2023.
• Burke showed deputies a sixth-grade yearbook photograph of Celeste.
• Burke also showed deputies a missing-person flyer bearing Celeste’s photograph.
• Deputies searched Burke’s residence with his consent while attempting to locate Celeste.
• Investigators observed several Hello Kitty items inside the residence.
• Burke explained the residence functioned as an “artist house” where other people frequently stayed.
• Body camera footage played in court captured Burke stating, “She told me she’s 18, but everyone is saying she’s 13.”
• The body camera footage also showed Burke providing Celeste’s phone number and describing how they first met.

Cross-Examination

• Defense attorney Regina Peter emphasized Burke’s cooperation with law enforcement.
• Peter highlighted that Burke consented to the search of his residence.
• Peter noted Burke voluntarily provided Celeste’s contact information.
• Peter further emphasized Burke repeatedly stated he believed Celeste was 18 years old.
• During redirect examination, prosecutors attempted to ask whether Burke had ever told deputies he had been in a sexual relationship with Celeste or had assisted her in leaving home.
• Defense counsel objected before either question was answered.
• Judge Eleanor Hunter Olmedo sustained the objection.
• No testimony regarding those questions was admitted into evidence.

Second State Witness: LAPD Robbery-Homicide Detective Joshua Byers

• Discovery of Burke’s Tesla: Detective Joshua Byers testified he responded to a Hollywood tow yard on September 8, 2025, after employees reported a strong odor coming from a black Tesla registered to David Burke.
• Investigators obtained a search warrant before searching the vehicle.
• Inside the Tesla’s front trunk (“frunk”), investigators discovered:
  • A partially unzipped black body bag.
  • Dismembered human remains contained inside the bag.
• Crime scene photographs shown during testimony depicted:
  • The body bag inside the Tesla’s front trunk.
  • The body bag after it was removed and opened.
  • Severed arms and legs.
  • Blood throughout the bag and surrounding contents.
  • Advanced decomposition.
  • Insect activity.
• Detective Byers testified the recovered remains included:
  • A torso.
  • A head.
  • Severed arms.
  • Severed legs.
• Additional crime scene photographs showed the head and torso.
• Investigators observed blue plastic or fiber fragments embedded within several cut surfaces of the severed limbs, including near one kneecap.
• Detective Byers testified the victim’s left ring finger had been amputated.
• Detective Byers testified the victim’s left little finger had been amputated.
• Detective Byers testified the victim’s right index finger, bearing the “SHHHH” tattoo, had also been amputated.
• Due to advanced decomposition and extensive skin slippage, Detective Byers testified he was unable to visually identify the victim.
• Courtroom Observation: The graphic evidence prompted visible reactions from several members of the gallery and media.
• Burke continued watching the courtroom monitors throughout the presentation and did not appear to avert his gaze while the crime scene photographs were displayed.
• Burke’s Arrest: Detective Joshua Byers testified Burke was arrested on April 16, 2026, at 1615 Marmont Avenue in the Hollywood Hills.
  • During the booking process, detectives documented several tattoos, including:
    • “CELESTE” tattooed in red ink on Burke’s ring finger.
    • “SHHHH” tattooed on his right index finger.
  • The “CELESTE” tattoo was specifically described during testimony.
• Purchases Investigators Considered Significant: Detective Byers testified investigators traced multiple purchases delivered to Burke’s Doheny Drive residence that investigators considered significant.
  • April 24, 2025
    • A shovel was purchased from Home Depot through Postmates.
  • May 1, 2025: A red-and-black 16-inch chainsaw was purchased through Amazon using an account associated with Travion Davis.
    • A pink-and-black 6-inch handheld chainsaw was purchased through Amazon using the same account.
    • Detective Byers testified both chainsaws were later recovered from Burke’s garage during the September 2025 search.
  • May 3, 2025: An inflatable pool was purchased through Amazon using the Travion Davis account and delivered to the Doheny Drive residence.
  • May 4, 2025: A Makita chainsaw was ordered from Home Depot through Uber/Postmates records.
    • A Libman spin mop and bucket system was purchased from Lowe’s through Uber/Postmates records.
  • May 5, 2025: A cadaver body bag labeled “CITY MORGUE” was purchased through Amazon using the Travion Davis account and delivered to the residence.
    • A heavy-duty laundry bag was also purchased through Amazon and delivered to the same address.
  • July 7, 2025: A burn cage was purchased under the name Victoria Mendez.
  • July 12, 2025: A fireproof burn mat was purchased through Amazon using the TravyonD email account.

Cross-Examination

• Cadaver Body Bag: Defense attorney Blair Berk questioned why the entire cadaver body bag was not preserved as evidence.
• Detective Byers testified he consulted with his supervisor and a criminalist before deciding the condition of the bag, due to advanced decomposition and bodily fluids, made preserving it impractical.
• Investigators retained portions of the body bag, including the zipper and handles, for forensic testing.
• Detective Byers acknowledged the remaining portions of the body bag were:
  • Not preserved.
  • Not fingerprinted.
  • Not swabbed for DNA.
  • Not subjected to additional forensic testing.
• Burn Cage: Berk questioned investigators about a burn cage found inside Burke’s residence.
  • Detective Byers testified he observed the unopened box near a piano on the second floor.
  • The box was photographed during the search.
  • Detective Byers acknowledged the burn cage:
    • Was not collected as evidence.
    • Was not tested for biological evidence.
    • Remained at the residence following the September 17, 2025 search.
• Chainsaws: Berk questioned investigators about three chainsaws recovered from Burke’s residence.
• Detective Byers testified:
  • Two chainsaws were recovered from the garage.
  • One chainsaw was recovered from the second floor.
  • All three chainsaws were tested for blood.
  • All blood tests were negative.
• Detective Byers testified he did not recall any DNA testing being performed on the chainsaws.
• Detective Byers further testified investigators did not conduct additional forensic examinations comparing the chainsaws to the cut marks observed on the victim’s remains after no blood was detected.
• Light Blue iPhone: Berk challenged investigators’ conclusion that a light blue iPhone 15 Pro Max belonged to Burke.
  • During direct examination, Detective Byers testified investigators attributed the phone to Burke based on photographs, selfies, and personal information stored on the device.
  • During cross-examination, Berk referred to a search warrant affidavit concerning Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s iCloud account, including the email address [email protected] , and questioned whether investigators had previously linked the phone to Celeste instead.
  • Detective Byers initially testified he did not recall the specific language used in the affidavit.
  • After reviewing the affidavit, Detective Byers testified the affidavit identified the email account as belonging to Celeste but did not identify the phone itself as hers.
  • The exchange became contentious.
  • Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman objected, arguing Berk was being argumentative.
  • Berk responded she believed the prosecution would ultimately argue both the phone and its contents belonged to Burke.
  • Judge Eleanor Hunter Olmedo sustained the objection in part and instructed counsel to move on.

Note: Detective Byers’ testimony described purchases investigators considered significant during the investigation. His testimony did not establish when or how those items were used. Any conclusions regarding their intended purpose remain allegations unless supported by additional evidence presented during the proceedings or determined by the trier of fact.

July 22, 2026

Day 2 Preliminary Hearing Continues

Preliminary Matters

• Before testimony resumed following a court break, two procedural disputes were addressed.
• Attorney Patrick Steinfield, representing the family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez in related civil proceedings, requested to make a record after being informed he could not use his laptop in the courtroom.
• Judge Eleanor Hunter Olmedo reminded Steinfield of the court’s rules governing electronic devices and instructed him to remain respectful toward court staff.
• Defense attorney Blair Berk argued the defense had not received a prosecution presentation that would be used during the next witness’s testimony.
• Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman disputed the claim, stating the defense had already been provided the presentation materials.

LAPD Criminalist Chelsea Murillo

• Forensic Processing of Burke’s Tesla: LAPD criminalist Chelsea Murillo resumed her testimony regarding the forensic processing of Burke’s Tesla Model X.
• Murillo testified the vehicle emitted an odor consistent with human decomposition.
• Investigators observed significant insect activity inside the Tesla’s front trunk (“frunk”), including:
  • Live maggots.
  • Dead flies.
• Multiple air fresheners were recovered throughout the vehicle, including:
  • Inside the rear doors.
  • Inside the front trunk.
• Some of the air fresheners recovered from the front trunk were covered with maggots and decomposition fluids.
• Blood Detection and Evidence Collection: Murillo testified investigators used:
  • Phenolphthalein presumptive blood testing.
  • Bluestar forensic reagent, a chemical enhancement used to locate possible bloodstains.
• Crime scene photographs showed multiple reddish stains inside:
  • The rear cargo area.
  • The third-row seating area.
• Murillo testified the stains produced presumptive positive reactions for possible blood.
• She explained laboratory testing would be required to determine whether the substance was human blood and, if so, identify its source.
• Investigators also recovered a USB flash drive from the Tesla’s glove compartment.
• No testimony was presented regarding the contents of the USB flash drive.

Cross-Examination

• Defense attorney Blair Berk questioned Murillo regarding the scope of the forensic examination.
• Murillo acknowledged investigators did not chemically test or swab portions of the interior or exterior rear hatch area.
• She testified that decision was based upon her assessment during the investigation.
• Murillo agreed she could not determine:
  • When the reddish stains were deposited.
  • Who deposited the reddish stains.
• Berk questioned whether certain crime scene photographs had been digitally enhanced.
• Murillo testified any enhanced photographs were clearly identified as enhanced and that enhancements were performed solely to improve visibility.
• When asked whether Bluestar produced positive results inside the front passenger compartment, Murillo testified she could not confirm.

Redirect Examination

• Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman confirmed that any photographic enhancements were performed only to improve visibility.
• Murillo testified the enhancements complied with standard forensic practices commonly used by crime laboratories.

LAPD Criminalist Lauren Wallace

• The prosecution next called LAPD criminalist Lauren Wallace.
• Wallace testified she previously worked as a scientist for BioGen before joining the Los Angeles Police Department.
• Wallace testified she has served approximately nine years with LAPD and has processed roughly 400 crime scenes, many involving vehicles.
• Wallace testified she assisted in processing evidence recovered during execution of the search warrant at Burke’s Doheny Drive residence.
• Her responsibilities included searching for visible biological evidence and documenting potential forensic evidence throughout the residence.
• Chainsaws: Wallace identified two chainsaws recovered from the garage:
  • A larger black-and-red chainsaw.
  • A smaller pink handheld chainsaw.
• Wallace testified both chainsaws underwent presumptive blood testing.
• Both chainsaws tested negative for blood.
• Garage Floor Mats: Wallace testified investigators documented approximately seven linear cuts in rubber floor mats located inside the garage.
  • She stated the cuts appeared consistent with damage caused by a sharp-edged object.
  • Crime scene photographs depicting the cuts were admitted during testimony.
  • Wallace documented several reddish stains on the floor mats.
  • She performed presumptive testing on the stains and collected samples from those producing positive reactions for possible blood.
• Additional Garage Evidence: Crime scene photographs admitted during testimony showed:
  • Reddish stains on a rowing machine located inside the garage.
  • Garbage bags containing wipes covered with brown-colored stains.
  • The inflatable pool recovered from the residence containing a dryer sheet.
  • Two green tarps exhibiting reddish stains.

Courtroom Observation

• During presentation of photographs showing the smaller pink chainsaw, a courtroom technology staff member briefly approached the courtroom monitor to resolve a technical issue.
• Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman remarked that the technician’s bright pink shoes matched the color of the chainsaw displayed on the screen.
• The comment prompted a brief reaction from members of the gallery before testimony continued.

July 23, 2026

Day 3 Preliminary Hearing Continues

Preliminary Matters

• Before testimony resumed, Judge Eleanor Hunter Olmedo addressed several procedural matters.
• Judge Olmedo stated that at 3:51 PM on July 22, 2026, the court’s media office received an email concerning a shared Google Docs document that allegedly provided a live transmission of courtroom proceedings to a content creator located outside California.
• Judge Olmedo stated the alleged conduct appeared to violate the court’s media order prohibiting live transmissions from inside the courtroom.
• The judge described the alleged violation as “shocking.”
• Judge Olmedo reread portions of the courtroom media order into the record.
• The judge also stated she had previously addressed similar concerns involving attorney Patrick Steinfield, who represents the Rivas family in related civil proceedings.

Courtroom Issues Raised by the Prosecution

• Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman informed the court that a woman seated in the last row of the gallery had approached her multiple times and made comments directed toward her.
• Silverman also advised the court that private investigator Steve Fisher, whom she identified as a grand jury witness, was present in the courtroom.
• Silverman argued Fisher should not remain in the courtroom because he had spoken with attorney Patrick Steinfield in the courthouse lobby.
• Silverman further stated Fisher regularly posted about the proceedings online.
• Steinfield informed the court that he initiated the conversation with Fisher and stated the discussion lasted approximately 15 seconds.
• After the matter was discussed on the record, Fisher voluntarily left the courtroom.

Courtroom Observation

• Following the discussion, Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman and attorney Patrick Steinfield appeared to engage in a heated verbal exchange before testimony resumed.

Cross-Examination of LAPD Criminalist Lauren Wallace

• Chainsaws: Defense attorney Blair Berk continued cross-examining LAPD criminalist Lauren Wallace regarding evidence collection and forensic testing.
• Wallace testified investigators recovered:
  • An orange-and-black chainsaw.
  • A pink handheld chainsaw.
• Wallace testified neither chainsaw handle was swabbed for touch DNA.
• Wallace explained presumptive phenolphthalein testing for biological material was negative.
• Wallace testified investigators sometimes collect items despite negative presumptive testing, while other items are not collected if investigators determine they have no forensic value.
• Third Handheld Saw: Berk questioned Wallace regarding a third electric handheld saw located inside a storage closet.
• Wallace testified:
  • The saw was examined.
  • Phenolphthalein testing was negative.
  • Investigators determined the saw had no forensic value.
  • The saw was not collected as evidence.
• Garage Items: Wallace testified investigators documented jugs of artificial blood and trays located inside the garage.
• Presumptive testing of those items was negative.
• Wallace stated the observations were documented in her report.
• Burn Cage: Berk questioned Wallace about a large box containing a burn cage.
• Wallace testified:
  • She did not document locating the boxed burn cage.
  • She never personally observed the burn cage.
  • She was not assigned to search the second floor of the residence, where photographs later showed the boxed burn cage had been located.

Redirect Examination

• Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman questioned Wallace regarding standard evidence collection procedures.
• Wallace testified investigators do not collect every item found at a crime scene.
• Wallace explained investigators collect items believed to have potential forensic value.
• Wallace further testified that not every collected item is automatically tested.
• Detectives and forensic analysts determine which evidence is most likely to produce useful forensic results, including DNA evidence.

LAPD Trace Analysis Criminalist Lisa Lahendro

• The prosecution next called LAPD criminalist Lisa Lahendro.
• Lahendro testified she has worked for the Los Angeles Police Department for 26 years, including approximately 22 years assigned to the Trace Analysis Unit.
• Her work includes examination of:
  • Hair.
  • Fibers.
  • Gunshot residue.
  • Other microscopic trace evidence.
• Inflatable Pool Examination: Lahendro testified her examination focused primarily on:
  • The inflatable pool recovered during the investigation.
  • The victim’s clothing.
• Photographs of the inflatable pool were displayed in court.
• Jurors were shown a diagram identifying four damaged areas labeled:
  • Area A.
  • Area B.
  • Area C.
  • Area D.
• Lahendro testified she recovered:
  • Hair.
  • Fibers.
  • Plant material.
  • Possible foam-like flakes that had separated from the pool.
• She examined the materials using a stereo microscope.
• Footwear Impressions: Lahendro testified she observed possible footwear impressions on the inflatable pool.
  • She attempted to recover the impressions using an electrostatic dust print lifter.
  • Lahendro testified the impressions were too faint or incomplete to successfully recover.
• Damage to the Pool: Lahendro testified the inflatable pool exhibited:
  • Straight linear cuts.
  • Irregular scalloped cuts.
  • Cuts that completely penetrated the pool material.
• Comparison of Blue Plastic Fragments: Lahendro testified she compared blue plastic fragments submitted by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office with damaged portions of the inflatable pool.
  • Using a stereo microscope, she determined several fragments physically fit into missing portions of the pool.
  • The demonstrated fit was shown in court using photographs similar to matching puzzle pieces.
  • Additional photographs showed approximately a dozen smaller blue plastic fragments.
  • Lahendro testified those fragments shared characteristics consistent with the pool material.
  • Because portions of the fragments were missing, she could not conclude they were exact physical matches.
• Evidence Received: Lahendro testified the blue plastic fragments were received from the Medical Examiner’s Office in sealed evidence bags.
  • A sealed evidence envelope containing a small blue fragment and hairs was displayed during testimony.

Detective William Roecker

• Cell Phone and Tesla Data Analysis: LAPD Detective William Roecker testified regarding historical cell phone records, Tesla telematics, and cellular tower analysis associated with David Burke.
  • Roecker testified investigators compared Burke’s cell phone records with Tesla connectivity data and found both devices repeatedly traveled together during several trips between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara County.
  • The analysis focused on three trips investigators identified as significant.

April 23-24, 2025

• • 11:01 PM to 11:11 PM: Burke’s cell phone and Tesla connectivity records (IMSI data) both placed him at the Doheny Drive residence.
  • Cell tower records showed both devices connected from the residence.
  • 11:31 PM to 11:35 PM: Burke’s cell phone began moving away from the residence.
  • Roecker testified the data indicated the phone, together with the Tesla, was traveling westbound, possibly along Sunset Boulevard.

April 24, 2025

• • 12:04 AM: Burke’s phone placed an outgoing call to Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
  • The call immediately went to voicemail.
  • Roecker testified this could indicate:
    • Celeste’s phone was powered off.
    • Her phone was in airplane mode.
    • Her phone was outside cellular network coverage.
  • 1:28 AM: Cell tower records placed Burke’s phone near State Route 154 (San Marcos Pass) in Santa Barbara County.
  • Tesla connectivity data placed the vehicle in the same general area.
  • 4:03 AM to 7:07 AM: Burke’s phone remained connected to northern Santa Barbara County cell towers.
  • By approximately 7:07 AM, both the cell phone and Tesla were traveling south toward the Doheny Drive residence.
  • Roecker testified investigators presented a map showing both the phone and Tesla near a remote location off State Route 154 where investigators later recovered evidence.

May 8-9, 2025

• • 8:00 PM (May 8): Tesla data and Burke’s phone were both located at the Doheny Drive residence.
  • 1:00 AM (May 9): Tesla data placed the vehicle near the State Route 154 corridor in Santa Barbara County.
  • 1:50 AM to 1:51 AM: Burke’s phone and Tesla connected to the same cell tower within approximately one minute of one another.
  • Roecker testified both devices continued traveling together.
  • 5:15 AM: Tesla records showed the vehicle returning to the Doheny Drive residence.

May 31, 2025

• • 1:25 PM to 5:52 PM: Burke’s phone traveled from the Doheny Drive residence toward the State Route 154 corridor in Santa Barbara County.
  • 4:47 PM to 4:48 PM: Burke’s phone and Tesla connected to the same cell tower within approximately one minute of one another.
  • 6:00 PM to 8:20 PM: Cell phone and Tesla data showed both devices traveling south and returning to the Doheny Drive residence.

Summary of Digital Analysis

• Roecker testified Burke’s cell phone records and Tesla connectivity data consistently tracked together during the April 23-24, May 8-9, and May 31, 2025 trips.
• Investigators used the combined digital evidence to reconstruct Burke’s travel patterns between Los Angeles and the State Route 154 corridor in Santa Barbara County.

Last Known Tesla Movement

• Roecker testified he reviewed:
  • Tesla vehicle records.
  • Surveillance video.
  • Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) data.
• Based on that analysis, Roecker testified the Tesla was not driven between approximately 2:00 PM on July 29, 2025, and September 5, 2025, when investigators recovered the vehicle.
• Roecker testified the digital evidence was consistent with earlier investigative findings regarding the vehicle’s last known movement.

July 24, 2026

Fourth Day of Preliminary Hearing

• • Dr. Grant Ho, Los Angeles County Medical Examiner
  • Dr. Grant Ho resumed his testimony regarding the autopsy and examination of Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s remains.
  • Dr. Ho testified the odor from Celeste’s body was so strong it could be detected from the hallway outside the autopsy room.
  • Due to the advanced decomposition, it remained impossible to determine the exact length of time Celeste had been deceased.
  • Dr. Ho testified numerous factors affected the postmortem interval estimate, including:
    • Internal decomposition.
    • Environmental conditions.
    • Storage conditions.
    • Temperature.
    • Scavenger activity.
    • Whether portions of the remains had been isolated from one another.
  • Based on the condition of the remains, Dr. Ho testified Celeste had been deceased for at least several weeks and that the condition was potentially consistent with a death occurring as early as April 24, 2025.
• Condition of the Remains
  • Dr. Ho testified the autopsy documented severe decomposition and extensive traumatic injuries consistent with dismemberment.
  • Examination showed:
    • One dismemberment site on each arm.
    • Two dismemberment sites on each leg:
      • One through the upper thigh.
      • One below the knee.
  • Dr. Ho testified the cut surfaces were generally smooth.
  • Tiny blue fragments were embedded within several of the bone cut surfaces.
  • Larger blue fragments were recovered and submitted for additional laboratory examination.
  • The dismemberment extended completely through bone rather than only through soft tissue.
  • Dr. Ho testified the pattern of the cuts was consistent with each leg having been dismembered individually rather than both legs being severed with a single cut.
  • He testified the appearance of the cut surfaces was potentially consistent with the use of a powered cutting tool, including a power saw or chainsaw.
  • Because of the advanced decomposition, Dr. Ho testified it could not be determined whether the dismemberment occurred before death or after death.
• Additional Amputations: In addition to both arms, examination documented amputations of:
  • Celeste’s left ring finger.
  • Celeste’s left pinky finger.
• Dr. Ho testified the cut surfaces of those fingers were clean and smooth and were consistent with a sharp-edged instrument, such as a knife or saw.
• Despite the advanced decomposition, Celeste’s “SHHHH” tattoo remained visible on the medial side of her right index finger.
• Effects of Decomposition: Dr. Ho testified the body exhibited:
  • Severe discoloration.
  • Skin slippage.
  • Tissue liquefaction.
  • Partial skeletonization of the face.
  • Loss of the left eye.
  • Insect activity.
  • Drying of exposed tissue.
• Multiple skin defects were documented throughout the body.
• Dr. Ho testified some of those defects were consistent with decomposition, while others could not be distinguished from traumatic injuries because of the advanced postmortem changes.
• Fatal Injuries: Examination of the torso revealed a penetrating abdominal wound passing through the diaphragm and into the liver.
  • The wound measured approximately 1.5 inches in its preserved state, although Dr. Ho testified decomposition likely altered its original appearance.
  • Dr. Ho testified the wound traveled from front to back and was consistent with a stab wound to the abdomen.
  • Examination also documented a penetrating wound to the left chest extending through the chest wall and damaging the ribs.
  • Dr. Ho testified the rib injury confirmed force had been applied while the tissue was still intact and that the damage was not caused by decomposition.
  • The chest wound penetrated at least 2 inches into the body.
  • Linear abrasions were documented on the back of Celeste’s right hand.
  • Blue plastic fragments embedded within the cut surface of the severed right knee remained unidentified.
  • Dr. Ho testified those findings were consistent with the possibility the body had been dismembered while in contact with blue plastic material.
  • Dr. Ho testified the penetrating chest wound was independently life-threatening because it could impair breathing or directly injure the lung.
  • He further testified the liver wound was also independently life-threatening because of the risk of massive internal bleeding.
  • Dr. Ho testified either injury was capable of causing death within minutes, although the precise survival time could not be determined because it would depend upon multiple individual factors.
• Additional Findings: Examination of Celeste’s teeth documented bonded orthodontic wire attached to the back surfaces of both the upper and lower teeth.
• Cause and Manner of Death: Dr. Ho determined the cause of death was multiple penetrating injuries.
  • He determined the manner of death was homicide, meaning the death resulted from the actions of another person.
  • Dr. Ho testified that determination was based on:
    • The fatal penetrating injuries.
    • The dismemberment of the body.
    • Concealment of the remains.
    • The absence of any reasonable alternative explanation for the death.
• Toxicology: Because no blood remained due to advanced decomposition, toxicology testing was performed using liver tissue.
  • Dr. Ho testified liver tissue was used because it remained available despite the advanced decomposition.
  • Testing detected only a trace amount of ethanol.
  • Dr. Ho testified the ethanol concentration was just above the laboratory detection threshold and was consistent with postmortem decomposition rather than alcohol consumption.
  • Toxicology testing also detected a benzodiazepine.
  • Testing for methamphetamine was inconclusive.
  • Dr. Ho testified none of the toxicological findings were determined to have contributed to Celeste’s death.
• Autopsy Completion: Dr. Ho testified the autopsy report was completed and signed in December 2025 after:
  • Additional laboratory testing.
  • Toxicology analysis.
  • Evaluation and exclusion of alternative causes of death.
• Medical records and investigative information available at the time of the autopsy were reviewed before the report was finalized.
• Postmortem Interval: Dr. Ho testified the advanced decomposition prevented a more precise estimate of the postmortem interval.
  • The condition of the remains established Celeste had been deceased for at least several weeks, although the decomposition was also consistent with a longer period.
  • No liquid blood remained within the body because of the advanced decomposition.
  • Celeste’s liver weighed approximately 225 grams at the time of the autopsy, reflecting significant postmortem decomposition.
  • Dr. Ho testified the reported weight of approximately 71 pounds represented the weight of the decomposed remains recovered by investigators and did not reflect Celeste’s weight while alive.
  • Throughout the examination, Dr. Ho considered the effects of advanced decomposition because decomposition can alter both anatomical findings and toxicological results.
• Cross-Examination: Defense attorney Marilyn Bednarski questioned Dr. Ho about the limitations of the medical evidence in determining exactly how Celeste Rivas Hernandez sustained her fatal injuries.
  • Bednarski explored whether the medical findings alone could exclude the possibility that Celeste inflicted the fatal wounds herself.
  • Dr. Ho testified the autopsy findings alone could not establish who was holding the instrument that caused the fatal injuries.
  • Bednarski asked whether background information about a decedent, including whether the individual had been suicidal, violent, or used drugs, could be helpful during a death investigation.
  • Dr. Ho responded, “Potentially.”
  • Dr. Ho testified he did not personally interview Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s family members regarding her personal history, behavior, or characteristics before completing the autopsy.
  • Dr. Ho agreed that although he determined Celeste died from multiple penetrating injuries and had been dismembered, he could not determine the precise timing of the two fatal penetrating wounds.
  • When asked whether the two fatal wounds could have occurred only seconds apart, Dr. Ho testified they could have.
  • Dr. Ho testified he could not determine which of the two penetrating wounds occurred first.
  • Bednarski asked whether Dr. Ho could determine whether Celeste herself had been holding the instrument that caused the wounds.
  • Dr. Ho testified he could not determine who was holding the weapon when the injuries were inflicted.
  • When asked whether it was possible Celeste could have been holding the weapon herself, Dr. Ho testified that possibility was one consideration. He explained that in suspected self-inflicted sharp-force injuries, medical examiners often look for hesitation marks or superficial wounds that may indicate a suicide attempt involving a sharp instrument.
  • Bednarski asked whether Dr. Ho knew the exact circumstances under which the fatal wounds occurred.
  • Dr. Ho replied, “Correct,” indicating the medical findings alone could not determine the precise circumstances surrounding the infliction of the injuries.
  • Bednarski asked whether the autopsy findings allowed him to determine whether there had been a struggle before Celeste’s death.
  • Dr. Ho testified the advanced decomposition of the remains prevented him from determining whether there had been evidence of a struggle.
  • During questioning, Bednarski explored whether one of the penetrating wounds could be interpreted differently based on the medical findings alone. Dr. Ho testified that alternative possibilities are considered during a forensic examination, but after evaluating the injuries, autopsy findings, and available evidence, he concluded the injuries were most consistent with sharp-force trauma and certified the cause of death as multiple penetrating injuries.
  • Throughout cross-examination, Dr. Ho reiterated that while the autopsy established the nature of Celeste’s injuries and their medical significance, it could not determine every circumstance surrounding how those injuries were inflicted or identify who was holding the weapon at the time they occurred.

Detective Corey Farrell, LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division

• Detective Corey Farrell testified regarding evidence recovered from David Anthony Burke’s iPhone and associated iCloud accounts.
• Farrell testified investigators identified the phone as belonging to Burke based on the investigation and because it was recovered from Burke’s Hollywood Hills residence.
• The device contained numerous personal items linking it to Burke, including:
  • Photographs of his driver’s license.
  • Passport images.
  • Self-photographs.
  • A North Carolina identification card.
  • Banking information.
  • Other personal documents.
• Photographs Recovered: Farrell testified investigators recovered numerous photographs documenting Burke’s relationship with Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
  • The photographs included:
    • Burke holding what appeared to be a ring.
    • Celeste with dyed red hair.
    • The pair together in bed.
    • Screenshots of FaceTime calls.
    • Two photographs showing a female hand with “David” tattooed in red cursive while wearing the same ring Burke was shown holding in another photograph.
  • Farrell also testified investigators recovered a lock screen image depicting Burke and Celeste embracing, although that image was not displayed in court.
• Digital Evidence: Farrell testified investigators recovered sexually explicit images and videos involving Burke and Celeste from Burke’s iPhone and iCloud accounts.
  • According to Farrell, the files appeared to have been created inside Burke’s bedroom and documented an ongoing sexual relationship between the two.
  • Prosecutors identified the recovered material as child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
  • The images and videos themselves were not shown in court. Farrell described the evidence after it had been reviewed and filtered by the LAPD Cyber Crimes Division for discovery purposes.
  • Farrell testified Celeste was frequently identifiable in the images by her dyed red hair.
• Courtroom Observation: During testimony concerning the recovered digital evidence, Celeste’s parents left the courtroom after becoming visibly overwhelmed.
  • Celeste’s mother cried as she exited the courtroom.
  • Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman apologized to the family as they left.
  • Throughout the testimony, Burke remained largely expressionless, occasionally shifting in his seat or leaning his head while continuing to face forward.
• Text Messages: Farrell testified investigators recovered text messages exchanged between Burke and Celeste from Burke’s iCloud account.
  • The earliest recovered communication was dated August 8, 2022, when Celeste was 11 years old.
  • The most recent recovered communication was dated April 23, 2025.
  • Farrell testified the recovered messages discussed:
    • Their relationship.
    • Plans to meet.
    • Travel between Lake Elsinore and Burke’s residence.
    • Future plans together.
    • Pregnancy concerns.
    • Abortions.
    • Emergency contraception.
• “Operation Awesome”: Farrell testified “Operation Awesome,” sometimes abbreviated “O.A.” in the messages, referred to plans for Celeste to leave home and live with Burke.
  • Investigators also recovered evidence confirming a trip to the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas had been booked for Burke and Celeste.
• Pregnancy-Related Evidence: Farrell testified investigators recovered photographs of Plan B emergency contraception from Burke’s iCloud account.
  • Prosecutors linked those photographs to the text message conversations.
  • Farrell testified messages exchanged during late 2023 included discussions about pregnancy, including:
    • Burke encouraging Celeste to track her menstrual cycle.
    • Conversations in which Celeste indicated she would not continue a pregnancy.
  • Farrell testified the recovered communications confirmed at least one abortion had occurred in January 2024.
• Additional Witness Information: Farrell testified text messages identified an individual named Sheldon, described as a bodyguard hired by Burke.
  • According to the recovered messages, Sheldon drove Burke and Celeste on multiple occasions.
  • Farrell did not identify Sheldon by his last name.

• Following the afternoon recess, Detective Corey Farrell continued reading text message exchanges recovered from David Anthony Burke’s iPhone and iCloud account.
• The messages documented an ongoing relationship between Burke and Celeste Rivas Hernandez and included discussions about their future together, marriage, and starting a family.
• Farrell testified the messages reflected plans for Burke and Celeste to marry and have two children, with additional discussions about possibly adopting more children in the future.
• Pregnancy and Menstrual Cycle Discussions: Farrell testified the recovered messages contained numerous conversations regarding Celeste’s menstrual cycle and concerns about pregnancy.
  • According to the messages, Celeste repeatedly expressed concern about becoming pregnant again.
  • Farrell testified Burke frequently reassured Celeste not to worry.
  • The messages indicated Burke tracked Celeste’s menstrual cycle and discussed having sexual intercourse during periods when he believed she was not ovulating.
• Timeline of the Relationship: Throughout the presentation of the messages, prosecutors repeatedly asked Detective Farrell to identify Celeste’s age at the time various communications were exchanged.
  • Farrell testified many of the sexually explicit messages were exchanged while Celeste was 13 years old and Burke was 19 years old.
  • The recovered communications continued after Celeste’s 14th birthday.
• Concealment of the Relationship: Farrell testified investigators recovered messages in which Burke stated he did not want anyone to know he and Celeste were having sex until they were married.
  • In a text exchange dated June 19, 2024, Celeste asked Burke whether his mother knew they had been sexually active.
  • According to Farrell, Burke responded that his mother believed sexual activity between them would not occur until they were together after marriage.
• Abortion Discussion: Farrell testified a text message dated August 30, 2024, documented Celeste expressing regret over a prior abortion.
  • According to the recovered message, Celeste wrote that she had “killed” her baby for Burke.
• Messages Regarding Pain During Sexual Activity: Farrell testified that in a text exchange dated June 27, 2024, Celeste told Burke that sexual intercourse had been painful.
  • According to the messages, Celeste repeatedly stated that she had been hurt.
  • Burke responded that he did not believe he had hurt her because he did not hear her say “ow” during the encounter.
  • Farrell testified the conversation continued with Celeste repeatedly maintaining that she had, in fact, been hurt.
• Relationship Dispute: Farrell testified investigators recovered messages dated November 7, 2024, documenting an apparent disagreement between Burke and Celeste.
  • During the exchange, Celeste stated they had been having sex for “almost a year straight.”
  • Burke responded by stating she was treating the situation as though it were their first breakup.
  • According to the recovered messages, Burke wrote, “This is the 8th time.”
  • Burke also accused Celeste of initiating physical intimacy, stating she initiated kissing and sexual activity and that he “folds every time.”
  • Farrell testified Burke also wrote, “I followed your lead.”

• During the final portion of Detective Farrell’s testimony, while the recovered text messages were read aloud, Burke’s demeanor appeared to change.
• Burke spent much of the testimony hunched over the defense table writing on a yellow legal pad and flipping through his notes.
• He looked up only occasionally to view the courtroom monitors before returning to his notes.
• At times, Burke appeared to frown while reading the messages displayed on the courtroom screens.

• LAPD Detective Corey Farrell: Detective Corey Farrell resumed his testimony regarding evidence recovered from David Anthony Burke’s iPhone, iCloud account, cellular records, Uber records and text messages exchanged with Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
• Farrell testified investigators recovered between 8,000 and 9,000 text messages exchanged between Burke and Celeste through Burke’s iCloud account.
• Prosecutors focused on communications exchanged between April 22 and April 26, 2025, immediately preceding Celeste’s disappearance.
• April 22, 2025 Messages One series of text messages centered on Burke’s friendship with Aysia Collins. Celeste became upset after learning Collins had been at Burke’s Doheny Drive residence to pick up Coachella guest wristbands. According to the messages introduced by prosecutors, Celeste threatened Burke, writing:

“i will kill u.”

“i will strangle u to death.”

“i will tell my dad so many lies about u.”

“i will end ur career and ur life.”

• During cross-examination, defense attorney Blair Berk introduced additional messages that immediately preceded and followed those statements.
• According to Defense Exhibit Q, Celeste also wrote:

“I will straight up mutilate your penis.”

• Burke responded that she had turned the disagreement into something much larger than it actually was and stated she was not listening to him.
• Approximately one minute later, Celeste sent another message stating she did not truly intend to carry out the threats and instead suggested she would simply arrive at his home crying while telling others they had been dating.
• Defense counsel also introduced messages in which Celeste warned Burke that she would:
  • Contact his mother.
  • Contact his employer.
  • Contact Nathan’s fiancée.
  • Create anonymous accounts.
  • Leak information she possessed about him.
• Farrell testified none of the messages specifically threatened to report Burke to law enforcement or participate in a criminal prosecution, although several referenced making information public.
• Communications About Meeting: Defense counsel introduced numerous additional messages showing repeated discussions about meeting before Burke departed for Singapore. According to the messages:
  • Celeste repeatedly asked Burke to allow her to visit.
  • Burke initially declined several requests.
  • The messages included:

“I can’t be friends with you anymore.”

“Find the quickest date for me to see you.”

“There is no possible way I cannot see you this week.”

“Can I see you at midnight?”

“Well we need to talk in person.”

“Please.”

• Burke repeatedly responded that his parents were visiting and that he preferred to speak with her after returning from Singapore.
• Celeste questioned whether his parents were actually present and requested proof before continuing to ask to meet.
• Defense counsel argued the messages demonstrated Celeste repeatedly initiated contact and insisted on seeing Burke before prosecutors allege she traveled to his residence.
• Uber Trip: Farrell testified Burke ultimately arranged an Uber to pick Celeste up from her family’s neighborhood in Lake Elsinore. Text messages showed:
  • Burke asked if she was coming.
  • Celeste provided the pickup address.
  • Farrell testified the address corresponded to the street where Celeste lived.
  • Defense counsel noted the messages showed Celeste suggested Burke order the Uber at approximately 8:30 p.m.
  • Farrell agreed.
  • Uber records confirmed the vehicle arrived at Burke’s Hollywood Hills residence at approximately 10:10 p.m.
  • Text messages showed Celeste informed Burke she was almost there and asked him to leave the door open.
• Final Communications: After the Uber arrived, Burke sent multiple messages stating:

“gate open door unlocked.”

“uber said ur here wya?”

“hellooo”

“bro”

“celeste”

• Farrell testified investigators recovered no additional outgoing messages from Celeste after those communications.
• Burke continued sending messages asking:

“bro blocking me?”

“hello”

“imma call Jen bro ur scaring me”

“wtf”

“where are u”

“please”

• Investigators testified the messages represented the final known communications between Burke and Celeste.
• Cell Phone, Tesla and Location Data: Prosecutors introduced Uber records together with Tesla telemetry and cellular location data.Investigators testified:
  • Burke’s cellphone remained at the Doheny Drive residence while Celeste traveled there.
  • Burke’s Tesla and cellphone departed the residence at approximately 11:30 p.m.
  • Navigation data later placed the Tesla traveling toward Lake Cachuma and a Tesla Supercharger in Santa Ynez.
• Burke’s Activities Before Celeste Arrived: During cross-examination, Berk questioned Farrell regarding Burke’s activities during the hour before Celeste arrived. Farrell testified investigators determined Burke had been:
  • Playing a virtual reality video game.
  • Wearing a VR headset.
  • Browsing movies.
  • Interacting online with two other individuals.
• Those activities occurred while Celeste was traveling to his residence.
• Investigative Timeline: Defense counsel reviewed the prosecution’s investigative timeline. Farrell agreed investigators concluded:
  • Uber arrived at approximately 10:10 p.m.
  • Burke’s messages asking where Celeste was were sent beginning approximately 10:31 p.m.
  • Based upon the prosecution’s investigative timeline, investigators believe the relevant events surrounding Celeste’s death occurred within approximately 20 minutes.
• Relationship Investigation: Defense counsel questioned Farrell regarding the extent to which Burke and Celeste’s relationship had been known before the homicide investigation. Farrell testified investigators determined:
  • Celeste’s parents knew about the relationship before April 2025.
  • Celeste previously lived with her aunt in Los Angeles.
  • Her aunt and cousins knew Burke.
  • Burke attended church with Celeste’s family.
  • Burke picked Celeste up to go shopping.
  • Celeste’s adult sister was aware of the relationship and traveled separately during the Las Vegas trip.
  • Celeste’s school friends knew about the relationship.
  • Burke’s mother knew about the relationship.
  • A notarized child travel consent form dated September 23, 2024, authorized Burke to take Celeste to London.
  • Celeste attended one of Burke’s performances at the Fonda Theatre with members of Burke’s family.
• Additional Defense Motions: Defense counsel attempted to introduce testimony concerning:
  • Alleged prior domestic violence by Celeste.
  • References in messages to “BPD.”
  • Messages in which Celeste discussed suicide.
• Judge Charlaine Olmedo sustained multiple prosecution objections, ruling those topics were not relevant to determining probable cause during the preliminary hearing.
• Farrell acknowledged investigators had seen messages in which Celeste discussed wanting to kill herself but testified he did not recall multiple such messages.

• Saturday, May 25: Boston, MA – Boston Calling Music Festival Source
• Wednesday, June 5: Toronto, ON – The Danforth Music Hall
• Friday, June 7: Philadelphia, PA – Theatre of Living Arts
• Saturday, June 8: Queens, NY – The Governors Ball Music Festival 2024
• Wednesday, June 12: Washington, DC – 9:30 Club
• Friday, June 14: Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre
• Saturday, June 15: Manchester, TN – Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
• Tuesday, June 18: Austin, TX – Emo’s Austin
• Wednesday, June 19: Dallas, TX – Southside Music Hall
• Friday, June 21: Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre
• Saturday, June 22: Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot
• Tuesday, June 25: San Francisco, CA – Regency Ballroom
• Thursday, June 27: Los Angeles, CA – The Fonda Theatre
• Friday, June 28: Los Angeles, CA – The Fonda Theatre
• Sunday, July 7: London, UK – KOKO
• Tuesday, July 9: Dublin, IE – The Academy
• Wednesday, July 10: Manchester, UK – Academy 2
• Thursday, July 11: Paris, FR – Le Trabendo
• Saturday, July 13: Cologne, DE – GLORIA
• Sunday, July 14: Amsterdam, NL – Melkweg
• Tuesday, July 16: Berlin, DE – Metropol
• Thursday, August 1 – Sunday, August 4: Chicago, IL – Lollapalooza Festival