Dan Rivera died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, at the age of 54.
Dan Rivera was a paranormal investigator, U.S. Army veteran, and public speaker. He also worked as a consulting producer for paranormal TV shows and was the lead handler of haunted artifacts, including the real-life Annabelle doll. Additionally, he served as Senior Lead Investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR).
Early Life and Background
Dan Rivera was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, a city known for its deep history and mysterious legends. From a young age, Rivera claimed to have experienced strange and unexplained phenomena flickering lights, moving shadows, and cold spots sparking his lifelong interest in the paranormal.
Before stepping into the world of spirits and haunted artifacts, Rivera proudly served in the U.S. Army, where his discipline and analytical mindset were shaped. These qualities later proved invaluable in his investigations into the supernatural.
Journey into the Paranormal
Rivera’s real journey began when he joined the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR) an organization founded by the legendary demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren, who inspired The Conjuring movie universe.
He quickly rose through the ranks and eventually became the senior lead investigator. Rivera was personally mentored by Lorraine Warren, who trusted him with her most guarded paranormal secrets. Over time, Rivera became known for blending science with spirituality in his investigations employing EMF meters, spirit boxes, and EVP recordings while also respecting cultural and religious rituals.
Guardian of the Real Annabelle Doll
One of Rivera’s most iconic roles was as the primary handler of the real Annabelle doll—a Raggedy Ann said to be cursed and locked inside a glass case. The doll, popularized by The Conjuring films, was kept at the Warrens’ Occult Museum in Monroe, CT.
In 2023, Rivera became the face of the “Devils on the Run” tour, where he traveled with the Annabelle doll to share its chilling history. His TikToks, often debunking fake stories and addressing viral rumors (like Annabelle “escaping” the museum), earned him a new generation of fans.
TV Appearances and Public Legacy
Dan Rivera wasn’t just a behind-the-scenes investigator, he was a public educator and media personality.
He appeared on Travel Channel’s “Most Haunted Places”. He served as a consulting producer for Netflix’s “28 Days Haunted”.
His social media videos regularly racked up thousands of views, especially those featuring haunted objects and behind-the-scenes footage from paranormal investigations.
Through it all, Rivera remained grounded known for treating each case with seriousness, respect, and a passion for uncovering the truth.
Sudden Death on Tour
On July 13, 2025, during a stop in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Rivera collapsed suddenly in his hotel room after a successful day on the “Devils on the Run” tour. He was 54 years old. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, Rivera was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities confirmed there was no foul play involved. An autopsy was ordered, and early reports indicated the cause of death to be natural, possibly cardiac-related.
Tony Spera, Lorraine Warren’s son-in-law and NESPR co-director, said:
“Dan was more than a colleague. He was family. A true friend who gave his heart to this work.”
Chris Gilloren, a fellow investigator, described him as: “Kind, respectful, passionate. He made people believe in the unseen.”
