Dan Rivera was an American paranormal investigator, Army veteran, and senior lead investigator of the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR). Rivera, well recognized as the current guardian of the notorious haunted relic “Annabelle,” rose to prominence in the paranormal field thanks to his investigations, public tours, and media appearances. His legacy is known for connecting paranormal history with public education, making him a popular figure in otherworldly communities.

Dan Rivera Biography

Dan Rivera was born in 1971 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA. He was brought up in a culturally diverse atmosphere and was captivated by mystical happenings from an early age. Rivera’s boyhood house was supposed to be haunted, which sparked his lifelong fascination with paranormal studies.

He then served in the United States Army, where he gained discipline, leadership skills, and a stronger spiritual connection. During his military years, Rivera learned Santería techniques, including ancestral traditions, rituals, and protection ceremonies, which he subsequently used in paranormal investigations.

While precise academic information is kept confidential, Dan Rivera was well-versed in spiritual studies, folklore, and paranormal history. His schooling was heavily influenced by field experience, spiritual guidance, and military training. Rivera learned the fundamental ideas of demonology and spiritual warfare from Lorraine Warren, her tutor.

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Career: Dan Rivera Paranormal

Rivera formally joined NESPR in 2011 and rapidly gained a reputation for his calm manner, cultural sensitivity, and investigative rigor. His efforts include the following:

• Residential hauntings: Performing spiritual cleansings and recording paranormal activity.
• Occult artifact handling: Safely transporting and interpreting haunted things.
• Public education includes hosting lectures, workshops, and media appearances.

He was known for his protective practices, frequently using Santería ceremonies before visiting haunted areas.

Rivera believed in honoring spiritual energies rather than challenging them, and he prioritized safety and ethics throughout his explorations.

The Annabelle Doll’s Cultural Impact

Rivera’s most well-known job was as the official manager of the Annabelle doll, a Raggedy Ann-style relic said to be possessed by a malicious force.

The doll, which is displayed in a glass case at the Warren Occult Museum, served as the inspiration for the Annabelle and The Conjuring film franchises.

Rivera took the doll around the United States for educational engagements, constantly advising people not to touch or criticize it. He created a unique case for Annabelle, dyed with holy water and adorned with three crosses representing the Holy Trinity. His veneration for the doll’s spirit gained him the respect and dread of both believers and doubters.

Devils on the Run Tour: A Paranormal Roadshow.

Dan Rivera organized the Devils on the Run Tour in 2025, a statewide event that included haunting items such as Annabelle. Stops in New Orleans, Chicago, and Gettysburg drew sold-out audiences and generated viral attention.

The tour sought to:

• Educate the people about paranormal history.
• Debunk Hollywood myths.
• Promote spiritual safety and awareness.

Rivera made his final performance at the Soldiers National Orphanage in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, which is known for being haunted. He was discovered unconscious in his hotel room hours after conducting a tour and, despite CPR attempts, was pronounced dead at the age of 54.

Dan Rivera Cause of Death

Dan Rivera died tragically on July 13, 2025, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, while on the final leg of the Devils on the Run tour. When he was discovered unconscious in his hotel room, CPR failed, and he was pronounced dead at the age of 54. The actual medical cause of death has not been made public.

His untimely death stunned the paranormal community, especially since it occurred when he was touring with the Annabelle doll, an odd coincidence that contributed to his legendary stature.

Television Career

Dan has been on various paranormal television series, including

• Most Haunted Places (Travel Channel)
• 28 Days Haunted (Netflix)

His programming included behind-the-scenes film from NESPR investigations, spiritual guidance, and myth-busting explanations of haunted legends. Rivera’s ability to combine entertainment and information made him a prominent figure in paranormal media.

Danny Rivera wife

Dan Rivera was married to Sarah Rivera, and they had four children. Rivera has always acknowledged his love for his family, combining his high-profile paranormal obligations with a dedicated family life. Despite his prominent occupation, Rivera kept his family out of the spotlight, preferring to maintain their privacy.

Danny Rivera net worth

Dan Rivera’s net worth was estimated to be between $700,000 and $1 million after his death. He prioritized education over personal fortune and donated revenues to family and spiritual causes.

Dan Rivera Social Media

Dan Rivera acquired a loyal following on social media, particularly on TikTok, where he provided instructional paranormal films that went viral. His writings frequently revealed behind-the-scenes details about NESPR investigations, spiritual ceremonies, and Annabelle’s past.