The paranormal world is grieving the unexpected passing of Dan Rivera, a leading investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR) and a key force behind a nationwide haunted artifact tour. “Devils on the Run” Annabelle tour. Rivera, 54, tragically passed away in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, July 13, 2025, while participating in the sold-out weekend event.
Rivera’s passing was confirmed by NESPR, the organization founded by Ed and Lorraine Warren, which continues to operate under their legacy. He was well-known for bringing the infamous Annabelle doll to audiences across the U.S. and for his public outreach through viral TikTok videos and television appearances.
A Sudden Loss in Gettysburg
Rivera was reportedly found unresponsive in his hotel room, according to the Adams County Coroner’s Office, which stated that while the cause of death remains pending autopsy results, no foul play is suspected. Emergency personnel were called to the scene on Sunday evening after a 911 report cited CPR in progress.
Authorities, including the Pennsylvania State Police, confirmed that Rivera was alone at the time and that an investigation is ongoing as per routine procedure for sudden deaths in the county.
Rivera’s Final Tour Was a Sold-Out Event
The Gettysburg tour stop—hosted by Ghostly Images of Gettysburg Tours—was a major success, with over 1,260 tickets sold for the July 11–13 weekend. Hosted at the Soldiers National Orphanage—an iconic site known for its rich history and ghostly reputation—the event drew paranormal enthusiasts from across the country.
Rivera led several tours during the weekend, greeting fans with charisma and humor, and sharing protective rituals inspired by his mentor, Lorraine Warren. He even crafted the protective case that housed the Annabelle doll, complete with crosses and holy water.
Carrying the Legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren
Dan Rivera’s fascination with the paranormal began in his youth and intensified after his service in the U.S. Army. His admiration for the Warrens led him to attend their lectures, eventually forming a close relationship with Lorraine Warren, who mentored him in the final years of her life.
Rivera became the lead investigator for NESPR in 2011 and worked tirelessly to keep the Warrens’ legacy alive. He played a key role in Paracon, a paranormal convention, and was instrumental in the traveling exhibitions of the Warrens’ occult collection, including Annabelle.
His outreach extended to media, with appearances on the Travel Channel’s Most Haunted Places, and as a producer on Netflix’s 28 Days Haunted.
Outpouring of Tributes Across the Paranormal Community
Following the announcement of Rivera’s passing, social media was flooded with tributes from paranormal investigators and fans. Ryan Daniel Buell, his close collaborator on the tour, praised Rivera’s compassion and lifelong dedication to helping others, both publicly and behind the scenes.
Fellow NESPR team members, including Chris Gilloren, Wade Kirby, and Tony Spera, expressed their heartbreak in a public statement, describing Rivera as a kind, passionate educator who touched countless lives.
Fans and attendees shared stories of their interactions with Rivera, describing him as genuine, welcoming, and deeply passionate about the supernatural.
Remembering Dan Rivera’s Words
In one of his final appearances during the Gettysburg event, Rivera emphasized creating a positive experience for all attendees. Reflecting his spiritual grounding, he referenced Warren’s guidance for spiritual protection:
“What Lorraine would say to protect yourself is to close your eyes and envision yourself in a halo of white light.”
Rivera’s legacy continues not only in the paranormal investigations he led but in the lives he touched and the generations he inspired through storytelling and respect for the unknown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Dan Rivera?
Dan Rivera was the lead paranormal investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR) and a U.S. Army veteran. He was known for leading the “Devils on the Run” Annabelle tour and preserving the legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren.
How did Dan Rivera die?
Dan Rivera passed away suddenly on July 13, 2025, in Gettysburg. While officials await the final autopsy findings, preliminary assessments indicate that Rivera’s death does not appear to involve any suspicious circumstances.
What was the ‘Devils on the Run’ tour?
It was a national tour organized by NESPR showcasing haunted artifacts, including the infamous Annabelle doll, with public presentations led by Dan Rivera and other investigators.
Was Rivera involved with Ed and Lorraine Warren?
Yes. Rivera was mentored by Lorraine Warren and became the lead investigator for NESPR in 2011. He worked closely with the Warrens’ family to continue their work after their passing.
What is Annabelle’s connection to Dan Rivera?
Rivera played a key role in presenting the Annabelle doll at public events, building a protective case for it, and sharing stories of its history, making him a central figure in the doll’s public narrative.