Alt-pop singer D4vd pleaded not guilty Monday to murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose dismembered body was found in his Tesla last September. The 21-year-old TikTok star — known for viral hit "Romantic Homicide" — faces first-degree murder with special circumstances, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and mutilating human remains. Prosecutors allege D4vd killed Celeste in April 2025 when she threatened to expose their relationship and "devastate his musical career." He faces life without parole or the death penalty if convicted.

Former prosecutor Mary David told ABC7 that DA Nathan Hochman is building a strong case: "There isn't necessarily one smoking gun, but there are just so many pieces that cannot be ignored." D4vd's high-powered defense team — led by attorney Blair Berk, whose firm has represented Harvey Weinstein and Kanye West — insists the evidence will prove his innocence. D4vd remains jailed without bail with his next court date Thursday.