The family of 14-year-old Celeste Abigail Rivas Hernandez issued their first public statement on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, one day after prosecutors formally charged alt-pop singer D4vd with her brutal death. Delivered through their attorney, the message offers a tender glimpse into the vibrant life of the Lake Elsinore teenager while expressing profound gratitude to investigators and the community that has stood by them during an agonizing seven-month search for answers.

Celeste, described by loved ones as a beautiful, strong girl who adored singing, dancing, and weekly family movie nights, vanished in April 2025 after reportedly visiting the Hollywood Hills home of David Anthony Burke, the 21-year-old musician known as D4vd. Her badly decomposed and dismembered remains were discovered on September 8, 2025 — one day after what would have been her 15th birthday — inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla registered to Burke.

On April 20, 2026, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced charges against Burke including one count of first-degree murder with special circumstances (lying in wait, financial gain, and killing a witness), continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. Prosecutors allege the murder occurred around April 23, 2025, involving a sharp instrument, and that Burke acted to silence Celeste after she threatened to expose repeated lewd acts. Burke pleaded not guilty at his arraignment and remains in custody without bail. His defense team maintains that evidence will prove he did not cause her death.

In their statement, parents Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez shared warm memories while thanking those who helped bring the case forward.

“We would like to thank the Los Angeles Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office for their hard work,” the statement read. “We would also like to thank the people of Lake Elsinore for all their support. Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. Every Friday night was movie night and we spent wonderful times together. We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.”

The family had planned to deliver the statement in person after Burke’s initial court appearance but were overwhelmed by emotion, their attorney Patrick Steinfeld explained. A planned press conference was ultimately canceled, with the written words serving as their voice during this devastating time.

The case has drawn intense attention due to its horrific details and Burke’s rising fame in the music industry. His alt-pop tracks, including one featured in Fortnite, had built a growing fanbase before the investigation cast a dark shadow over his career. The special circumstances attached to the murder charge could lead to the death penalty or life without parole if he is convicted.

Celeste’s disappearance and the shocking discovery of her remains in a vehicle tied directly to Burke sparked widespread outrage and support for the family. Community members in Lake Elsinore organized vigils and searches, helping keep her story alive until charges were filed.

The family’s statement humanizes the tragedy, focusing on the everyday joys Celeste brought — Friday movie nights filled with laughter, her passion for music and dance, and the constant affirmations of love she shared with her parents. These details paint a portrait of a lively teenager whose bright future was stolen in an alleged act of exploitation and violence.

As the legal proceedings advance, with a preliminary hearing scheduled soon, the Rivas Hernandez family continues to seek accountability. Their simple plea — “All we want is justice for Celeste” — resonates far beyond their community, highlighting the need to protect vulnerable young people from those who might exploit positions of influence.

This case also raises difficult conversations about grooming, online interactions between celebrities and minors, and the challenges of investigating cases involving decomposed remains that delayed charges for months. Investigators relied on a grand jury and extensive forensic evidence to build their case.

For Celeste’s loved ones, the charges mark a painful but necessary step toward closure. While nothing can return their daughter, the family’s strength in sharing their memories and demanding justice stands as a testament to their love and resilience.

Celeste Rivas Hernandez will be remembered as the girl who lit up family nights with her smile and dreams of performing. Her parents’ words serve as both a loving tribute and a call for the justice system to deliver answers and accountability. As Burke maintains his innocence, the coming court battles will determine whether that justice can begin to address the immense loss left behind.

In the face of unimaginable grief, the Rivas Hernandez family has chosen grace and determination. Their first public statement reminds us all of the human cost behind headlines and the enduring power of a family’s love.