Dan Rivera, the infamous paranormal investigator and Annabelle handler, has died suddenly while on tour with the supposedly ‘haunted’ doll.
The news arrives just a couple of months after the real Annabelle doll – who inspired a string of The Conjuring spinoff movies – hit the headlines when rumors surfaced that she had gone ‘missing’ while on tour across the US.
Her backstory originates from the late paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, who claimed the toy is demonically possessed before locking her away in their now-closed Occult Museum.
Now, she’s in the hands of the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR). Although the rumors that she caused chaos on a recent tour weren’t true, a real tragedy unfolded on July 13, 2025.
What happened to Dan Rivera?
Dan Rivera, a lead paranormal investigator at NESPR, died suddenly in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania on Sunday July 13, while on tour with the real Annabelle doll. He was 54 years old.
No cause of death has been revealed at the time of writing, although the Evening Sun reported that the case is not currently being treated as suspicious.
Adams County dispatch information showed that first responders were called to a hotel in Gettysburg after 8pm that night, with reports of a CPR in progress on a male patient of Rivera’s age.
Adams County coroner Francis Dutrow told the outlet that an autopsy is being conducted, which could take up to several months.
Rivera was among those leading the NESPR’s ‘Devils on the Run’ tour, which brought the allegedly haunted Annabelle doll to various venues across the US.
When rumors of her going missing surfaced in May, Rivera took to TikTok to set the record straight, saying, “Annabelle is not missing and was never in Chicago,” before confirming that they would be back on the road soon.
The NESPR shared a heartfelt statement confirming the news of his passing on July 15, which reads, “With heavy hearts, we share the sudden and heartbreaking loss of our friend and colleague, Dan Rivera.”
“Dan was not only a vital part of our team for over a decade, but also a deeply compassionate, loyal, and dedicated friend,” it added, commenting on the US Army veteran’s work with Lorraine Warren before her passing.
“We understand that Dan’s work inspired fascination and curiosity for many, but above all, he was a father, devoted husband, and loyal friend, someone who meant the world to those closest to him.
“Out of respect for his family, we kindly ask for privacy as they mourn this tremendous loss.”
The organization went on to say that it will be continuing with the scheduled events for this year.
“We believe with all our hearts that Dan would have wanted the work to continue – bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and honoring the memory of Ed and Lorraine Warren.”
Tributes pour in for Annabelle doll expert
With the news of Rivera’s passing, the internet is awash with comments falsely blaming Annabelle for the incident. But for the most part, tributes continue to pour in for the passionate paranormal specialist.
NESPR lead investigator Chris Gilloren said, “It’s with deep sadness that Tony, Wade, and I share the sudden passing of our close friend and partner, Dan Rivera. 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. Thank you for your support and kind thoughts during this difficult time.”
Sarah Bond Rivera also shared a statement on behalf of the family, which reads, “We as a family are in pieces as we share the news that Dan Rivera has passed away unexpectedly.
“He was the center of this family and a pillar of love and strength. As a devoted husband, father of four sons, and a staunchly faithful friend, he always had a quiet source of resilience, strength and endless hope.
“Daniel carried a light and a brave heart everyday through his life and his work. We are currently at a loss for words as we process his loss but are extremely thankful for the love, support and respect during this unimaginable time.”
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