Fortnite Issues Refunds for D4vd Cosmetics Following Singer’s Murder Charges

April 28, 2026 - 16:37

Epic Games has begun offering refunds to Fortnite players who purchased cosmetics tied to the singer D4vd, after the artist was formally charged in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The decision comes as the gaming company moves to distance itself from the controversial figure, whose in-game items were previously promoted as part of a limited-time collaboration.

Players who bought D4vd-themed skins, emotes, or other virtual items through the Fortnite Item Shop are now eligible for a full refund of V-Bucks or real-world currency, depending on the original payment method. The refund process is being handled automatically for recent purchases, while older transactions may require players to submit a request through Epic Games’ customer support portal. The company has not disclosed the total number of refunds issued or the financial impact of the move.

The charges against D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, stem from an alleged incident that resulted in the fatal shooting of Hernandez in a suburb of Los Angeles. Authorities claim the singer was involved in a dispute that escalated into violence, leading to the teenager’s death. Burke has been held without bail and is awaiting trial, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for later this month.

Fortnite’s decision to refund the cosmetics reflects a broader trend among gaming companies to sever ties with celebrities or influencers facing serious legal troubles. Epic Games stated in a brief announcement that it “takes the safety and well-being of its community seriously” and that the refunds are part of its commitment to “maintaining a positive and respectful environment for all players.” The company has also removed all promotional material featuring D4vd from its official channels and social media accounts.