Dan Rivera, the paranormal investigator who toured the U.S. with the infamous Annabelle doll, has been confirmed to have died from natural causes. The Adams County Coroner, Francis Dutrow, announced on September 4, 2025, that Rivera’s death was linked to his known history of cardiac issues. He was found in a Gettysburg hotel room on July 13, 2025, while part of the Devils on the Run tour organized by the New England Society for Psychic Research.
Contrary to the speculation that circulated online, Annabelle had nothing to do with his death. In fact, the doll was not even in the room at the time. Rivera’s passing had sparked debates and sensational claims about the cursed doll, prompting Jason Hawes from Ghost Hunters to speak out. He urged the public to remember Dan for who he was, calling the rumors “made-up stories to get clicks or attention.”
Dan Rivera was a respected figure in the paranormal community and a senior lead investigator for the Connecticut-based NESPR. After his death, the organization shared a heartfelt statement on Facebook, expressing their grief and highlighting his dedication to educating others about the paranormal. Rivera was 54 years old when he passed away, and despite the dramatic headlines, the cause was a medical one, unrelated to the doll he toured with.
