Paranormal Investigator Dan Rivera Dies Suddenly While Touring with Infamous Annabelle Doll

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania — Dan Rivera, a renowned paranormal investigator and lead handler of the legendary “haunted” Annabelle doll, died unexpectedly on July 13, 2025, while on the “Devils on the Run” tour in Gettysburg. Rivera, aged 54, was found unresponsive in his hotel room late Sunday evening. Despite immediate CPR efforts by emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have reported no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, and the cause remains pending further investigation.

Rivera was a prominent figure in the paranormal community, serving as the senior lead investigator with the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), the organization famously started by Ed and Lorraine Warren. He was best known for his work with the Raggedy Ann doll known as Annabelle, which inspired the hit horror film series The Conjuring. Rivera carried the doll across the United States on the “Devils on the Run” tour, educating fans and attendees about paranormal phenomena through engaging live presentations.

His sudden passing shocked fans and colleagues alike. Chris Gilloren, lead investigator at NESPR, expressed profound grief on the organization’s Facebook page: “We are heartbroken and still processing this loss. Dan truly believed in sharing his experiences and educating people on the paranormal. His kindness and passion touched everyone who knew him.”

Rivera’s legacy extended beyond investigations; he was also a familiar face on paranormal TV shows, including Travel Channel’s Most Haunted Places, and served as a consulting producer for Netflix’s 28 Days Haunted. His charismatic presentations and dedication played a crucial role in bringing paranormal lore to mainstream audiences.

The Annabelle doll was not present at the hotel during Rivera’s passing and was likely secured elsewhere by the tour team. While some have speculated about a curse associated with the doll, officials emphasize there is no evidence linking the doll to Rivera’s death.

The paranormal community and fans worldwide mourn the loss of Dan Rivera, a passionate educator and respected investigator whose work helped deepen public interest in the supernatural.