Paranormal investigator Dan Rivera, known for touring with the infamous Annabelle doll, has died at the age of 54. Rivera passed away on July 13, 2025, while attending an event in Gettysburg.
A respected Army veteran and senior lead investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research, Rivera was part of the nationwide “Devils on the Run” tour at the time of his death.
Cardiac-Related Death Confirmed
On September 4, Adams County Coroner Francis Dutrow confirmed Rivera’s cause of death as cardiac-related and ruled it natural.
“Mr. Rivera had a known history of cardiac issues, which were consistent with the findings. It is also confirmed that Annabelle was not present in the room at the time of his passing,” Dutrow said, as reported by PEOPLE.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, Rivera was found in his hotel room in Straban Township by staff members. The police report stated: “Nothing unusual or suspicious was observed at the scene.”
Officials added that Rivera had been with colleagues earlier in the day but went back to his room after feeling unwell.
The Haunted Annabelle Doll
At the time of his passing, Rivera was traveling with the Annabelle doll, long regarded as one of the most haunted objects in the world.
The doll’s story dates back to 1968, when it was gifted to a student nurse who began noticing disturbing occurrences. A medium later claimed the doll was inhabited by the spirit of a young girl named Annabelle.
The New England Society for Psychic Research explained:
“The two roommates tried to accept the doll’s spirit and please it only to have it reciprocate maliciousness and violent intent.”
Famed paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren later took the doll and sealed it inside a glass case, where it remains to this day. The tale later inspired The Conjuring and Annabelle films.
Remembering Dan Rivera
Rivera was well-known in the paranormal community for his dedication to investigating haunted objects and unexplained phenomena. His sudden death has left fans and fellow investigators mourning the loss of a passionate researcher.
