Singer D4vd Charged with Murder in Dismemberment Case
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LOS ANGELES — Pop singer D4vd was charged on Sunday with the murder of a 14-year-old girl whose remains were discovered inside his vehicle, authorities announced.
The arrest marks a dramatic turn in the case involving the 22-year-old artist, known for his hit single "Romantic Homicide." Prosecutors filed the charges following an investigation that led to the discovery of the victim's dismembered body in the trunk of a car registered to the musician.
Detectives stated that the girl was last seen alive on Friday evening. Her remains were located early Saturday morning during a traffic stop in an undisclosed location. Authorities did not release the victim's name or the specific jurisdiction where the vehicle was seized, citing an ongoing investigation.
D4vd, whose real name is Daniel David Hernandez, appeared in court via video link. He was arraigned on one count of first-degree murder and one count of child abuse resulting in death. The judge set bail at $5 million and ordered the singer held without bond pending a preliminary hearing scheduled for next week.
Law enforcement officials described the crime scene as "gruesome," noting that the body had been cut into multiple pieces. Medical examiners are expected to determine the cause of death and the time of the killing through an autopsy scheduled for Monday.
The singer's legal team has not yet issued a public statement. D4vd's representatives declined to comment when approached outside the courthouse. The artist's social media accounts remain active, with recent posts showing him performing at a concert last week.
Investigators are working to establish a timeline of events leading up to the discovery of the remains. They are also examining the singer's phone records and travel history to determine if the victim was taken from her home or encountered elsewhere.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the victim's age and the high profile of the accused. Community members have expressed shock and outrage, with vigils planned for the victim's family.
Authorities have not disclosed how the victim came to be in the singer's car or if there was a prior relationship between the two. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The investigation remains active as detectives continue to gather evidence. The court has ordered a psychiatric evaluation of the defendant to assess his competency to stand trial. Results from that evaluation are expected within 30 days.
No motive has been established at this time. Prosecutors indicated that the case will proceed to trial unless new evidence emerges that changes the charges.
The singer's management company has suspended all upcoming tour dates and promotional activities. Record labels have not commented on the status of his contract.
As the legal process begins, the community awaits further details on the circumstances surrounding the death. The case is expected to be closely monitored by law enforcement and the public alike.