Family Invokes Marsy's Law Ahead of D4vd Arraignment in LA

The family of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez is taking formal legal steps to ensure their presence in the judicial process.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:52pm

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An extreme close-up of a shattered car sensor lens reflecting a faint red light, conceptually illustrating the vandalism of self-driving cars.The family's invocation of Victims' Rights law signals their intent to be active participants in the judicial process against the suspect in Celeste's death.Los Angeles Today

The family of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has invoked their rights under the California Victims' Bill of Rights Act, commonly referred to as Marsy's Law, ahead of the anticipated arraignment of singer David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd, on April 20 in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Burke, 21, was arrested on April 16 following a homicide investigation that spanned seven months.

Why it matters

Marsy's Law gives victims and their families a stronger legal standing to participate in criminal proceedings. This move by Celeste's family suggests they intend to be actively involved in the case against D4vd, who is facing charges in connection with Celeste's death.

The details

Celeste Rivas Hernandez's remains were discovered on September 8, 2025, located in the frunk of a Tesla registered to Burke after the vehicle was towed to an impound lot. Though multiple reports indicate that the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office ruled the death a homicide, this determination has not been officially confirmed. The family has retained Patrick Steinfeld, an attorney specializing exclusively in wrongful death cases, and they expressed their intention to 'fully participate' in the criminal proceedings.

  • Celeste Rivas Hernandez's remains were discovered on September 8, 2025.
  • Burke was arrested on April 16, 2026.
  • Burke's arraignment is scheduled for April 20, 2026.

The players

Celeste Rivas Hernandez

A 14-year-old victim whose remains were discovered in the frunk of a Tesla registered to David Anthony Burke.

David Anthony Burke

Also known as D4vd, a 21-year-old singer who was arrested on April 16 in connection with Celeste Rivas Hernandez's death.

Patrick Steinfeld

An attorney specializing exclusively in wrongful death cases, who has been retained by Celeste's family.

Jesus Rivas

Celeste's father, who expressed gratitude for the arrest and a desire for justice.

Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office

The office that reportedly ruled Celeste's death a homicide, though the determination has not been officially confirmed.

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What they’re saying

“thank God... justice for Celeste.”

— Jesus Rivas, Celeste's father

What’s next

As the criminal case moves forward, the family's legal representation could pursue a civil action for wrongful death. The court may also determine the status of the investigative hold on the medical examiner's report. Further evidence may emerge as the Los Angeles Police Department continues to seek information.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of Marsy's Law in giving victims' families a stronger voice in high-profile criminal proceedings. The family's strategic move to retain a wrongful death specialist suggests they are preparing for a potential civil lawsuit alongside the criminal trial.