A wave of sorrow has swept through the paranormal community as Dan Rivera, a respected paranormal investigator and the dedicated handler of the infamous Annabelle doll, tragically passes away at the age of 54.
The heartbreaking incident occurred during the “Devils on the Run” tour, a traveling tribute to the legendary work of Ed and Lorraine Warren, two of the most renowned figures in the field of paranormal investigation. Rivera, who played a crucial role in keeping the Warrens’ legacy alive, was participating in the event when the tragedy unfolded.
Reports state that Rivera was discovered unresponsive in his hotel room on the morning of July 14, 2025. Emergency responders attempted CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) in a desperate bid to revive him, but sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact cause of his death remains unclear, with autopsy results currently pending.
Throughout his career, Dan Rivera earned widespread recognition for his expertise in dealing with haunted artifacts and unexplained phenomena. Most notably, he served as the custodian of the Annabelle doll, a supposedly possessed Raggedy Ann doll that has long been the subject of fear and fascination among paranormal enthusiasts.
Rivera was closely affiliated with the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), the organization founded by Ed and Lorraine Warren. His involvement with NESPR allowed him to continue the work of his mentors while bringing awareness to the dangers and mysteries associated with the supernatural realm.
He became a familiar face through his appearances in popular paranormal shows such as “Most Haunted Places” and Netflix’s “28 Days Haunted,” where he educated the public about haunted objects and unexplained occurrences. His calm demeanor and dedication to safety made him a trusted figure among both investigators and fans of the paranormal world.
Dan Rivera’s passing marks a profound loss to those who knew him personally and to the wider community of paranormal researchers and believers. His work, particularly in preserving the legacy of the Warrens and ensuring the safe handling of the Annabelle doll, has left an indelible mark on the field.
As the community awaits the official cause of death, tributes continue to pour in for a man who devoted his life to understanding and confronting the unknown.