Paranormal investigator dies suddenly aged 54 while touring US with infamous ‘Annabelle’ doll
Dan and the doll on tour (dan_rivera_nespr/Instagram)
Fellow paranormal investigator Ryan Buell paid tribute to his buddy, writing on TikTok: “I have so many amazing memories with this guy. Just as recently as two months ago, we traveled around the country and introduced a whole new generation to Ed and Lorraine Warren’s legacy.”
The Raggedy Ann doll was allegedly tied to a series of hauntings in 1970 after falling into the care of a Connecticut nursing student called Donna.
She and her roommates claimed it started moving about the room on its own and leaving them sinister notes.
Ed and Lorraine Warren, famous paranormal investigators, founded the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR) in 1952 and went on to investigate several strange cases, including the Amityville Horror house on Long Island and the Annabelle doll, going on to inspire horror movies like The Conjuring.
They claimed the doll could physically move, follow people and act maliciously, like causing a car crash and stabbing a police officer.
Another psychic medium said the doll had become possessed by the spirit of a dead six-year-old girl – called Annabelle.
The Warrens were convinced it was actually possessed by a demon that was looking to move to a human host.
His cause of death is yet to be confirmed (dan_rivera_nespr/Instagram)
Rivera, who was mentored by the late Lorraine Warren, was the lead investigator of NESPR at the time of his passing.
In a statement, the NESPR said it was ‘devastated’ by his death and ‘is still coming to terms with this profound loss.’
“Dan was not only a vital part of our team for over a decade, but also a deeply compassionate, loyal and dedicated friend.”
Chris from the society also said: “It’s with deep sadness that Tony, Wade, and I share the sudden passing of our close friend and partner, Dan Rivera.
“We are heartbroken and still processing this loss. Dan truly believed in sharing his experiences and educating people on the paranormal.
“His kindness and passion touched everyone who knew him. Thank you for your support and kind thoughts during this difficult time.”
Rivera is survived by his wife Sarah and four children.