Dan Rivera, a senior lead investigator at the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), was found dead in his hotel room in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He had been participating in the popular “Devils on the Run” haunted object tour featuring the infamous Annabelle doll.
Circumstances of His Passing
Gettysburg–area authorities confirm Rivera’s death occurred in room at a hotel in Straban Township on that Sunday evening. Emergency responders administered CPR after hotel staff found him unresponsive. Investigators found no signs of foul play, and the official cause of death remains pending toxicology and autopsy results.
A Life Committed to the Paranormal
Early Influence & Military Service
Born and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Rivera’s fascination with the supernatural began in childhood, sparked by unusual events at home. He later served in the U.S. Army before devoting himself fully to paranormal work
Mentored by the Warrens
Rivera co‑founded NESPR alongside famed demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren’s legacy. As senior lead investigator, he handled haunted artifacts, including Annabelle, working under Tony Spera’s stewardship
Media & Public Engagement
Known for his dynamic presence online and in media, Rivera produced viral TikTok clips introducing audiences to the spooky lore. He was a consulting producer for Netflix’s “28 Days Haunted” and featured on shows like Travel Channel’s “Most Haunted Places”
The Annabelle Tour & Its Legacy
Object of Fear and Fame
The Annabelle doll, encased in glass since the late 1960s, has inspired films like The Conjuring and Annabelle. It toured with “Devils on the Run,” stopping in Gettysburg—an event where Rivera tragically died
Public Curiosity & Safety Measures
Rivera previously quashed rumors of the doll disappearing online, confirming in TikTok posts that Annabelle remains secured in the original Warrens’ Museum
Reactions from Family & NESPR
Heartfelt Tributes
NESPR and family have issued emotional statements, calling Rivera “compassionate, loyal, and dedicated” with a deep desire to inform and support those experiencing paranormal events. They request privacy as his wife and four children mourn
Continuing His Legacy
NESPR announced it will carry on with planned events across Maine, Illinois, Kentucky, and the rest of the tour. They expressed belief that Rivera would have wanted the mission to persist—bringing communities together and honoring the Warren legacy
Impact on the Paranormal Community
Shock & Mourning
Rivera’s sudden passing sent waves through paranormal researchers and fans. Emergency responders and colleagues alike reflect on the tragedy. No suspicious circumstances have been noted.
Remembering His Work
Beyond viral fame, Rivera’s expertise in Santeria and spiritual rites, coupled with empathetic communication, made him a bridge between mainstream audiences and families grappling with supernatural events.
Final Thoughts
Dan Rivera’s sudden and unexplained death leaves a profound hole in the world of paranormal investigation. Honored as a veteran, educator, and storyteller, his legacy will endure through both NESPR’s ongoing work and the tutorials, tours, and videos he created. Although the loss is deeply felt, Rivera’s influence lives on in those he inspired and lead. Rivera’s warmth, curiosity, and deep respect for the supernatural made him a trusted figure in both professional and fan communities worldwide.
