Paranormal Expert's Cause of Death Unclear After He Dies on 'Annabelle' Doll Tour
An acclaimed paranormal investigator has died suddenly at the age of 54 while touring with an "Annabelle" doll popularized in horror movies.
Dan Rivera's death was announced by the New England Society for Psychic Research.
He died in Gettysburg, PA, while bringing the doll around the country on the "Devils on the Run Tour."
How did Rivera die? The cause of death has been withheld pending an autopsy, according to the Evening Sun, which reported that first responders were called to a Gettysburg hotel around 8 p.m. July 13 for a report of CPR being conducted on a man.
"It’s with deep sadness that Tony, Wade, and I share the sudden passing of our close friend and partner, Dan Rivera," a person named Chris wrote in a July 14 post on that group's page.
"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," the post continues.
According to the Evening Sun, Rivera died during a visit of the Annabelle doll to Gettysburg. The newspaper described his death as "the sudden passing of one of the national tour's lead organizers." The Evening Sun noted that, according to the coroner,
"The death did not appear suspicious, and Rivera was found alone in his hotel room."
In a detailed press release, the group described Rivera as a U.S. Army veteran who helped conduct local events such as An Evening With Annabelle.
His work "inspired fascination and curiosity for many," the group wrote, but he was also a "loyal husband and devoted friend." He was described as being part of the group's team for more than a decade.
The organization describes itself as "Founded by Ed & Lorraine Warren in 1952 and home of the Warren Occult Museum and Annabelle."
The original Annabelle doll's history is given on the group's website.
In 1970, "a mother purchased an antique Raggedy Ann Doll from a hobby store. The doll had been a birthday present for her daughter, Donna," it says. "Within days both Donna and Angie noticed that there appeared to be something very strange and creepy about the doll. The doll mysteriously seemed to move about the house, relatively small movements at first, such as a change in position, but as time passed the movement became more noticeable."
The website also contains a brief bio for Rivera. "Dan Rivera has been involved in paranormal research and investigations for over a decade. Born and raised in Bridgeport, CT, at an early age he was introduced to haunting phenomena, having witnessed paranormal events occurring in his home. Dan is a U.S. army veteran and is an expert in the rites and rituals of Santeria," it says.
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