Coroner's office personnel said that the death did not appear suspicious, and that Rivera was found alone in his hotel room.
What happened
Dan Rivera, 54, senior lead investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), died on July 13, 2025, in a hotel room in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, during the “Devils on the Run” tour with the infamous Annabelle doll
Authorities (Pennsylvania State Police, Adams County Coroner) have ruled the death natural, with an autopsy pending and no signs of foul play
Rivera had just completed a sold-out segment of the tour and reportedly felt unwell earlier that day
Legacy & Next Tour Steps
A U.S. Army veteran, Rivera was known for decade-long paranormal research, extensive use of social media (like TikTok), and roles on Travel Channel’s Most Haunted Places & Netflix’s 28 Days Haunted
Ryan Daniel Buell and others praised his dedication to educating on the Warrens' paranormal legacy and supporting families affected by hauntings
Despite the tragedy, NESPR plans to continue the tour (upcoming stops: Maine, Illinois, Kentucky) as a tribute to Rivera
Netizens & Paranormal Community React
Online speculation quickly emerged blaming the Annabelle doll, but Buell insisted these rumors are insensitive to the grieving family
Paranormal Voices Weigh In
Zak Bagans of Ghost Adventures admitted having been “very affected by her” when he encountered Annabelle in 2017, offering condolences to Rivera’s family
Bottom Line
Officially, Dan Rivera’s death is natural and unexpected.
Conspiracy theories abound on social media — but no credible evidence implicates Annabelle or foul play.
His passing has deeply affected both the paranormal community and tour-goers.
The “Devils on the Run” tour will go on, honoring his vision of sharing the Warrens’ work with the public.