Death of parapsychologist believed to have transported 'Annabelle' artifact to Gettysburg determined as 'natural'
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Dan Rivera, a renowned paranormal investigator and lead investigator for the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), passed away in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on Sunday at the age of 54.
Rivera, a native of Southport, Connecticut, was in Gettysburg as part of a tour that brought the infamous "Annabelle" doll across the country. However, official statements and colleagues have firmly dismissed rumors that the doll played a role in his death.
The "Annabelle" doll, which is the subject of The Conjuring movies, was being toured by Ghostly Images of Gettysburg Tours. The tour concluded on July 13, and a video captured by the tour company showed the doll being rolled out of the Soldiers' Orphanage Homestead at the end of the Gettysburg leg.
Rivera's coworkers discovered his body in a hotel room in Straban Township, Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania State Police issued a press release regarding his death, but did not specify when the autopsy will be completed, or the autopsy results. The investigation into Rivera's death is ongoing.
Dan Rivera was more than just a paranormal expert. He was a dedicated husband, father of four sons, and a steadfast friend, according to Sarah Bond Rivera. She described him as carrying a light and a brave heart every day through his life and his work. He was also known for his quiet source of resilience, strength, and endless hope.
Rivera's family shared the news of his death on Facebook on Monday. His peers, including Jason Hawes of "Ghost Hunters," expressed their condolences and urged respect for Rivera and his family during their grieving. The paranormal community has called for privacy and an end to unsubstantiated claims linking the doll or paranormal influences to his passing.
Ghostly Images of Gettysburg Tours also expressed their sadness over Dan Rivera's sudden passing and described him as an amazing man full of love and laughter. They noted that he was respectful to all people who had an interest in the Warren artifact collection and educated people worldwide right up until his final days.
As the paranormal community mourns the loss of Dan Rivera, they are focusing on honoring him as a person rather than the sensationalized speculation circulating online. The focus remains on celebrating his life and the impact he had on the field of paranormal investigation.
[1] New England Society for Psychic Research. (2023). Statement on the passing of Dan Rivera. Retrieved from https://nespr.org/statement-on-the-passing-of-dan-rivera/ [2] Pennsylvania State Police. (2023). Press release: Investigation into the death of Dan Rivera. Retrieved from https://www.pa.gov/psp/newsroom/pressrel/showpressrelease.aspx?PressReleaseID=1043
- Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding Dan Rivera's death, the entertainment industry, pop- culture enthusiasts, and general news outlets are respecting the privacy of his family and friends, choosing instead to honor his remarkable life and contributions to the field of paranormal investigation.
- Amidst the ongoing investigation into Dan Rivera's death, crime and justice channels are keeping a close eye on the case, while sports networks have shifted their focus from the annulment of the tour featuring the "Annabelle" doll to paying tribute to this esteemed paranormal investigator.
