Dan Rivera, a leading paranormal investigator, passed away just hours after finishing a sold-out ghost tour in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The event featured the infamous Annabelle doll, known worldwide for inspiring The Conjuring film series. Rivera was 54 years old.
He was found unresponsive in his hotel room early Sunday morning. First responders attempted to revive him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Adams County Coroner confirmed there were no signs of foul play. An autopsy is scheduled, which is standard for cases involving sudden deaths outside of hospitals.
Rivera served as the lead investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), an organization founded by Ed and Lorraine Warren. He also appeared on shows like Most Haunted Places and consulted for 28 Days Haunted on Netflix.
The Gettysburg stop marked the end of NESPR’s “Devils on the Run” tour, which showcased some of the group’s most haunted items. Rivera had been touring with Annabelle, a Raggedy Ann doll said to be possessed by a dangerous spirit. The doll has been part of NESPR’s collection since the 1970s and is rarely allowed outside their control.
Ghostly Images of Gettysburg, which hosted the event, posted a tribute on Facebook, calling Rivera “a great man and a good friend.” NESPR described him as compassionate and deeply committed to helping others through his work.
Beyond the ghost stories, Rivera was a U.S. Army veteran, a husband, and a father of four. Friends and fellow investigators have praised his dedication, especially his care for Lorraine Warren during her final years.
Ryan Buell from Paranormal State wrote a moving tribute, sharing how Rivera supported him during his recovery. He also highlighted Rivera’s behind-the-scenes efforts helping haunted families and pushing forward the Warrens’ legacy.
Despite the loss, NESPR said the tour will continue in Rivera’s honor. In their statement, they quoted Rivera himself: “In life we leave a piece of ourselves with loved ones and friends. So, I say I will never die. My journey has only begun.”
