Epic Games has moved to calm a growing Fortnite backlash by confirming refunds for d4vd cosmetics after the singer was charged with first-degree murder in the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

The controversy erupted after players began calling for D4vd‑related Fortnite items to be removed from their lockers. According toVice reporting, Epic Games is refunding d4vd cosmetic items, including the 'Feel It' emote and Jam Tracks, following online reports and community pressure. The company's response comes days after it was revealed that David Burke, the 21-year-old musician known professionally as d4vd, pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and other charges connected to Celeste's death. Prosecutors allege her remains were found in the trunk of a Tesla registered to him, while his attorney has said the evidence will show he did not kill her.

Fortnite confirms it is issuing refunds to players who purchased D4vd cosmetics on Fortnitepic.twitter.com/YPq7nYkGTx

Epic responded through the Fortnite Status account, saying it had heard players' concerns and would roll out changes over time. The first confirmed move is a self-service refund option, expected to become available on Tuesday, 28 April.

The Fortnite Status statement said: 'We hear the concerns. We have a bunch of changes we're rolling out over time.' It added that anyone who purchased the affected items would be able to get an immediate self-service refund, while players could already contact support to request refunds for d4vd cosmetics.

Refundable d4vd items include the 'Feel It' emote, 'What Are You Waiting For' Jam Track, and 'Locked & Loaded' Jam Track. Each was listed at 500 V‑Bucks, with the emote released in 2024 and the Jam Tracks added in later Fortnite chapters.

We hear the concerns. We have a bunch of changes we’re rolling out over time. The first one will be available on Tuesday April 28th, when anyone who purchased one of these items will be able to get an immediate self-service refund. And, right now, players who request refunds for…

The backlash intensified because Fortnite is a youth-heavy platform where artist collaborations often remain visible long after real-world controversies emerge. For many players, keeping d4vd cosmetics in their lockers became uncomfortable once the criminal charges were made public.

Burke faces counts including first-degree murder, sexual acts with a minor and mutilation of remains, and he remains in custody without bail after pleading not guilty.Celeste's death was ruled a homicide caused by multiple penetrating injuries, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner's office. The same report noted that Burke's attorneys maintain he did not cause her death and say they will defend his innocence.

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Source: International Business Times UK