The paranormal world was struck with shock on July 13, 2025, when Dan Rivera, a prominent paranormal investigator and handler of the infamous Annabelle doll, passed away unexpectedly during a tour in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Rivera, 54, had been a senior lead investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), an organization founded by renowned demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren. Rivera’s death has left many within the paranormal community mourning the loss of a deeply dedicated and passionate individual.
Rivera was at the center of the “Devils on the Run” tour, a series of events where the Annabelle doll, a Raggedy Ann doll said to be haunted by a demonic spirit, was showcased to the public. This doll, famously depicted in The Conjuring movies, has long been associated with dark and eerie occurrences. Rivera’s expertise and care in handling the doll, as well as his commitment to paranormal investigations, made him a beloved figure in the community. While his death has left a significant gap, the NESPR has decided to continue the tour, honoring his legacy by moving forward with the scheduled events.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dan Rivera |
| Age | 54 |
| Occupation | Senior Lead Investigator at NESPR |
| Notable Work | Handler of Annabelle Doll, Paranormal Tours, 28 Days Haunted (Netflix) |
| Military Background | U.S. Army Veteran |
| Career Achievements | Co-Producer of Viral Paranormal TikToks, Consultant for Paranormal TV Shows |
| Date of Death | July 13, 2025 |
| Cause of Death | Pending autopsy results |
| Legacy | Pioneer in paranormal research, Devoted to educating the public |
For more information on Dan Rivera’s career and contributions, visit IMDb.
Rivera’s Role in the Annabelle Doll Tour
Dan Rivera’s most notable work was his involvement in the Devils on the Run tour, where he played a key role in educating the public about the infamous Annabelle doll. The doll, originally housed at the Warrens’ Occult Museum in Connecticut, has a reputation for being demonically possessed, a story that has been widely shared through the Conjuring movie franchise. Rivera’s role was not only to bring the doll to various locations but also to ensure safety and manage the experiences of those attending the events.
The final tour stops in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, was scheduled from July 11 to 13, and Rivera was seen interacting with attendees, educating them about the doll’s eerie history. According to authorities, Rivera had been feeling unwell before his sudden death, and his body was discovered in his hotel room. Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed that there was nothing unusual or suspicious at the scene, and an autopsy is currently pending.
Despite the tragic loss, Rivera’s legacy will continue as the Annabelle doll tour moves forward. The NESPR has expressed their commitment to carrying on the work Rivera started, ensuring that the paranormal community continues to grow and evolve.
Continuing Rivera’s Legacy
The New England Society for Psychic Research, in a heartfelt tribute to Rivera, stated that his passion for paranormal research and his dedication to educating others would live on. NESPR emphasized that Rivera’s contributions were not just limited to his work with Annabelle but also his tireless effort to share his knowledge and experiences with the world. His viral TikTok videos and his appearances on TV shows like 28 Days Haunted helped spark public interest in the paranormal world, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
In honor of Rivera’s legacy, NESPR will continue the planned tour dates for the remainder of 2025, including stops in Maine, Illinois, and Kentucky. Rivera’s commitment to the field, and his genuine desire to connect with people, will be carried forward by his colleagues and the organization he helped shape.
The Impact of the Annabelle Doll
The Annabelle doll itself remains a source of fascination and terror for many. Its origin story, beginning in 1968 when it was given to a nursing student, has become a key part of paranormal lore. After a series of strange occurrences, the doll was examined by Ed and Lorraine Warren, who determined it to be possessed by a malevolent spirit. The Warrens took the doll into their care, and it now resides in a glass case in their Occult Museum, where it continues to attract both curiosity and caution.
Dan Rivera was instrumental in bringing the story of Annabelle to life for a modern audience. His handling of the doll and his role in educating people about its dangerous history helped elevate the doll’s status as one of the most infamous haunted objects in the world. Rivera’s expertise and his passion for sharing the stories of the paranormal will continue to influence the field and inspire future generations of paranormal investigators.
A Community Remembers
Following Rivera’s death, many in the paranormal community have expressed their sorrow and admiration for his work. Ryan Buell, the host of Paranormal State, shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering Rivera as a loyal and caring friend. Jason Hawes, star of Ghost Hunters, also praised Rivera for his dedication to the field and urged the public to respect his family’s grief during this difficult time.
As the paranormal community comes together to mourn the loss of one of its most dedicated members, Rivera’s impact will continue to be felt through the work that NESPR will carry on. The upcoming events will serve as a reminder of his passion, dedication, and the deep connection he had with the world of the unknown.
Moving Forward with Rivera’s Vision
While the loss of Dan Rivera is deeply felt, his vision for the future of paranormal research and education will continue. The New England Society for Psychic Research has made it clear that they will carry on the work Rivera began, ensuring that the paranormal field remains an open space for exploration, education, and connection. Rivera’s spirit will guide them as they honor his legacy through the continued exploration of the supernatural.
