In brief
A Los Angeles judge has ruled that US musician D4vd will stand trial for the murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The preliminary hearing presented graphic evidence, including photographs of a dismembered body and testimonies about online purchases of a chainsaw. Prosecutors claim D4vd stabbed the girl before dismembering her, following sexual abuse and a threat to expose his relationship with a minor. Defense lawyers argue insufficient evidence and raise questions about the victim’s age misrepresentation. The case highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and serious criminal charges.
A judge has approved a trial for US pop star D4vd in the murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez in Los Angeles.
During the five‑day preliminary hearing prosecutors presented graphic evidence, including photographs of a dismembered body, and testified that D4vd ordered a chainsaw and a shovel online shortly after the murder.
Prosecutors allege the singer stabbed the teen, used a chainsaw to dismember her, and threatened her family that he would destroy his career if she revealed his relationship with a minor.
Defense lawyers say the evidence is insufficient, a third chainsaw was never located and police did not find a body in his garage, arguing the case lacks a clear link between D4vd and the crime.
The judge ruled that probable cause existed, and the trial will start within 90 days of the indictment, scheduled for 31 August.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said his office has not yet decided on a death penalty and will present all evidence at trial.
