What Happened to Dan Rivera? Paranormal Expert Dies

Dan Rivera, a well-known paranormal investigator and lead figure in the “Devils on the Run” tour featuring the haunted Annabelle doll, passed away suddenly at the age of 54 on July 13, 2025. His death occurred during a tour stop in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Dan Rivera passes away at 54, claims report

Rivera, who served as the senior lead investigator with the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), was touring with the famous Annabelle doll when the incident happened. The Adams County Coroner confirmed his death, though the official cause is still pending the results of an autopsy.

Emergency services were called to a Gettysburg hotel after Rivera was found unresponsive. He was alone in his room and undergoing CPR. Officials later stated the death appeared non-suspicious, and the Pennsylvania State Police are supporting the investigation.

Paranormal Legacy and Career

A U.S. Army veteran, Rivera joined NESPR in 2011 and was trained by Lorraine Warren until her passing in 2019. He played a vital role in protecting the Warrens’ legacy and showcasing their haunted artifact collection.

Rivera gained widespread popularity on TikTok, especially through videos with fellow investigator Ryan Daniel Buell, helping the tour gain national attention.

A Tour That Drew Crowds

The Gettysburg event was held at the Soldiers National Orphanage and sold over 1,260 tickets in just three days. The Annabelle doll, believed to be possessed, was a key attraction and has been part of paranormal history since 1968 when the Warrens removed it from a private residence.

NESPR and Community React

On July 14, NESPR officially confirmed Rivera’s passing, calling him a “dedicated educator in the paranormal field.” Fellow investigator Chris Gilloren described him as someone “whose kindness and passion touched everyone who knew him.”

Rivera’s bio noted his lifelong interest in hauntings and his deep knowledge of Santeria practices. He had also worked on Travel Channel’s Most Haunted Places and was a consulting producer on Netflix’s 28 Days Haunted.

His death has prompted emotional tributes from fans and fellow investigators, including a viral post from Buell, praising Rivera’s efforts to help haunted families.