D4vd Pleads Not Guilty to Murder of Teen Celest Hernandez

American singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthoni Burk, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges related to the death of 14-year-old Celest Riva Hernandez. The formal arraignment took place on Monday, where prosecutors detailed the case against the 21-year-old artist.

Allegations suggest that Hernandez was killed in connection with an underage relationship with Burk, who is accused of attempting to conceal the act to protect his music career. Prosecutors claim that Burk used a sharp object in the alleged murder and that he was arrested on April 16.

The victim's body was reportedly discovered inside a vehicle linked to Burk. The prosecution has gathered substantial evidence over several months in preparation for the case, which includes charges of first-degree murder with special circumstances and additional allegations of unlawful acts against a minor.

Burk faces life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty under California law. A decision on whether to seek the death penalty will be made later, with the next court hearing scheduled for April 23.