Hernandez’s father, Celeste Rivas, addresses rumors and denies allegations that D4vd made hidden payments

The father of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez is actively refuting claims that he is associated with D4vd, the individual accused of her murder, and he strongly denies any rumors regarding financial connections.

Jesus Rivas, via his attorney Patrick Steinfeld, dismissed any speculation regarding his interaction with singer D4vd, who is presently confronting several felony charges related to the teen’s death. “I have had no contact with this person, and we have not received any money from him or his family,” he said, responding to online rumors in Lake Elsinore, California.

Social media platforms like Reddit and Facebook widely circulated rumors suggesting that the Rivas family had received payments. The denial arrives as the family grapples with the emotional impact of the case, which has attracted national attention because of its troubling allegations.

Prosecutors allege that D4vd, legally known as David Burke, is charged with the murder of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, which occurred in April 2025 at his residence in Hollywood Hills. Investigators allege he organized transportation for the minor and subsequently committed the murder, with court documents stating he kept in touch with her throughout 2024 despite efforts by her family to intervene.

Officials indicate that the situation intensified following several reports of Celeste’s disappearance in 2024. Prosecutors additionally assert that Burke employed intermediaries to engage in communication with her and arranged travel across state and international boundaries.

Her remains were found months later in September 2025 inside a vehicle associated with the accused. He has been charged with first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a minor, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. He has entered a plea of not guilty and is set to appear in court again later this month.