Parents of teen victim call for death penalty if D4vd convicted

The parents of Celeste Rivas Hernandez have publicly stated that an execution “would be perfect” should the defendant known as D4vd be found guilty of her murder. In a press conference held on Tuesday, the family expressed their belief that the ultimate penalty would provide closure for the loss of their daughter, who was discovered deceased on March 12 in a residential neighborhood of Austin, Texas. The case has drawn significant media attention after surveillance footage placed D4vd, a 22‑year‑old local musician, at the scene shortly before the time of death, and forensic evidence subsequently linked him to the victim’s injuries.

The investigation, led by the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, has resulted in D4vd being charged with first‑degree murder and capital murder, offenses that carry the possibility of the death penalty under Texas law. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next month, at which a judge will determine whether the case proceeds to a capital trial. While the prosecution has indicated its intent to seek the maximum sentence, defense attorneys have filed motions challenging the admissibility of key evidence. The outcome of the upcoming proceedings will determine whether the capital punishment sought by the victim’s parents can be pursued.