Fortnite D4vd Cosmetics Controversy: Epic Games Offers Refunds Amid Player Concerns
Epic Games has addressed the controversy surrounding D4vd cosmetics in Fortnite by offering players the option to request refunds while they work on broader changes. The company acknowledged player concerns and announced that immediate self-service refunds would be available starting on April 28 for those who purchased D4vd-themed items. Players can also request refunds for D4vd cosmetics through player support.
The move comes after D4vd, also known as David Anthony Burke, faced serious criminal charges, including the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The charges allege that the incident occurred in 2025 at Burke's Hollywood Hills home after Hernandez threatened to report their relationship. Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Players have been calling for the removal of D4vd-themed items from Fortnite following the details of the case. Some players no longer want these items associated with their accounts and have requested their removal. Epic Games has indicated that refunds apply to any D4vd cosmetic that has been purchased, including emotes and Jam Tracks released in multiple seasons.
Players who own D4vd cosmetics can request refunds through Epic Games player support. A self-service refund option will be introduced on April 28, allowing players to process eligible refunds instantly without submitting a ticket. The affected cosmetics include emotes like Feel It and Trophy Drop, as well as Jam Tracks like What Are You Waiting For and Locked and Loaded.
Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was last seen in 2024, had a connection with David Anthony Burke. Burke's music career continued to expand in 2025 with the release of Locked & Loaded, which became the first official Fortnite anthem. In September 2025, human remains were found in a vehicle linked to Burke, leading to a death investigation. The remains were later identified as those of Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
In November 2025, Burke was named as a suspect in the investigation and was later arrested in April 2026 on charges of first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains. Epic Games confirmed refunds for D4vd cosmetics in Fortnite on April 26, following player requests and ongoing support ticket submissions. A preliminary evidentiary hearing is scheduled for May 1, 2026.
The charges against Burke include special circumstances that could carry the death penalty, although prosecutors have not confirmed whether they will seek it. D4vd gained popularity in 2022 with his track Romantic Homicide and signed with Darkroom and Interscope Records, releasing albums like Petals to Thorns and The Lost Petals in 2023.