Graphic evidence, including photos of dismembered remains, was presented Tuesday in a Los Angeles courtroom during the preliminary hearing for a singer accused of the murder of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The victim's family, including her mother, Mercedes, was present for the proceedings, despite being warned about the disturbing nature of the evidence.
Celeste's mother stated her intention to remain in court to support her daughter, even after her legal counsel advised that the images would be indelible. "I told her she didn't have to be in the courtroom for this part of the hearing," said attorney Steinfeld. "But she said, 'I want to be here to show support for Celeste.' She just put her head down and started crying."
The courtroom, packed with journalists, YouTubers, TikTok creators, and members of the public who won seats via lottery, fell silent when the defendant, identified as Burke, was brought in wearing an orange jail uniform and shackles. He was chained to his chair throughout the hearing.
Detective Joshua Byers testified and presented images of the victim's body, which was discovered in September 2025 in the trunk of a Tesla located in a Hollywood tow yard. Byers described finding decomposing human remains, including a torso and head, with severed limbs found in a separate bag. According to the detective, the decomposition was so severe that the victim's face was unrecognizable.
Prosecutors also presented evidence of purchases made under an alias to Burke's address after Celeste's death, including chainsaws, body bags, and an inflatable pool. Investigators allege these items were used in the dismemberment and concealment of her body.
Further evidence presented included tattoos that prosecutors claim link Burke to Celeste. Photographs were shown of a red-ink tattoo reading "Celeste" on Burke's left ring finger and a "Shhh..." tattoo on his right index finger. Prosecutors displayed a photograph of Celeste with a similar "Shhh..." tattoo on her right index finger and another image showing a hand with the ring and little fingers removed.
The preliminary hearing is expected to continue for several days, with additional witnesses slated to testify as prosecutors work to build a case for a jury trial.