DNA expert ties slain 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez to blood stains found in D4vd's garage
A DNA expert testified that biological evidence found in a garage matches 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was allegedly murdered by a man identified as D4vd. The testimony is part of a preliminary hearing to determine if the defendant will stand trial for murder and other charges.
Why it matters
This case highlights the use of forensic DNA evidence in high-profile criminal proceedings and the legal process for determining trial eligibility.
LOS ANGELES — A DNA expert testified Thursday that evidence recovered from apparent blood stains in the garage of D4vd's Hollywood home was a strong DNA match for 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, the girl he is charged with stabbing to death.Prosecutors are alleging that D4vd killed the girl then dismembered her in the garage after she threatened to reveal their sexual relationship and crater his career. Police technicians took the samples from a rubber floor mat, a rowing machine and a Tesla charger in the garage, and Los Angeles police criminalist Samantha Tosch testified that they matched Rivas Hernandez.The testimony came on the third day of a preliminary hearing where a judge will decide if Burke should stand trial on charges of murder, sexual abuse of a child and mutilation of a body.
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