D4vd murder hearing begins with graphic evidence presented

A criminal hearing began Tuesday in the circuit court of Los Angeles County to address the murder of emerging pop‑rock singer D4vd, whose real name is David Birney. The 21‑year‑old artist, known for viral tracks such as “Romantic Homicide” and “Going Bad,” was found dead in his Hollywood apartment on March 14. Prosecutors have charged 27‑year‑old former acquaintance Michael Torres with first‑degree murder, alleging that the suspect entered Birney’s residence late at night and fatally stabbed him before fleeing the scene. The hearing, the first formal court appearance for Torres, will determine whether he will be held without bail pending trial.

Court officials noted that the case has attracted considerable public attention, given D4vd’s rapid rise on streaming platforms and his substantial online following. Defense counsel requested a continuance to review newly disclosed forensic evidence, while the prosecution argued that the existing evidence—including surveillance footage and DNA findings—justifies continued detention. The judge set a tentative trial date for early next year and scheduled a subsequent hearing to address pre‑trial motions, signaling that the legal process will move forward amid ongoing investigations by the Los Angeles Police Department.