Dan Rivera, a veteran paranormal investigator and senior lead at the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), passed away suddenly in Gettysburg on July 13, 2025, while touring with the infamous Annabelle haunted doll.
Sudden Passing During “Devils on the Run” Tour
Rivera was part of the “Devils on the Run” tour, an event focused on paranormal phenomena featuring haunted objects including the notorious Annabelle doll. While staying at his hotel in Gettysburg during the tour’s Pennsylvania stop, emergency services were called after he was found unresponsive. Authorities have yet to release an official cause of death.
Rivera’s Career in Paranormal Investigation
A former U.S. Army veteran from Bridgeport, Connecticut, he dedicated over ten years of his life to investigating supernatural occurrences. He served as senior lead investigator for NESPR, the organization founded by the legendary Ed and Lorraine Warren. Dan Rivera also gained public attention as a consulting producer for Netflix’s 28 Days Haunted and made numerous appearances on the Travel Channel and TikTok, where his content often went viral.
Connection to Annabelle and the Warrens’ Legacy
Rivera was instrumental in continuing the legacy of the Warrens by helping manage and present their most famous cases and artifacts to the public. His most high-profile work involved the Annabelle doll—an object believed by many to be possessed or cursed. His work brought a mix of education and caution to the paranormal world.
Tributes from the Paranormal Community
Rivera’s colleagues at NESPR expressed deep grief and admiration following his sudden passing. They described him as not only a skilled investigator but also a compassionate educator who dedicated himself to helping others understand and respect the supernatural. Many who worked with him noted his professionalism, kindness, and passion for telling the stories behind haunted artifacts.
Public Reaction and Unanswered Questions
News of Rivera’s passing has spread rapidly, with tributes pouring in from fans, investigators, and those inspired by his work. His death during a paranormal tour, while handling an object like Annabelle, has fueled public curiosity and speculation. However, Rivera’s colleagues urge fans to respect the investigation and await official results, including an autopsy report that will clarify the cause of death.
Conclusion
Dan Rivera’s untimely death marks a significant loss for the world of paranormal investigation. As someone who devoted his life to exploring the unexplained and educating the public with sincerity and dedication, Rivera leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire believers and skeptics alike. His work with NESPR, his connection to the Warrens’ legacy, and his passion for unveiling the unknown made him a truly unique and respected figure in the paranormal world.
