Zak Bagans speaks out after Dan Rivera dies while touring with Annabelle doll

Ghost Adventures star Zak Bagans is speaking out following the unexpected death of paranormal investigator Dan Rivera, who had recently toured with the infamous Annabelle doll, an object long associated with sinister folklore and housed in the Warrens’ Occult Museum.

Bagans, who first encountered Annabelle in 2017, shared in a recent interview, “I got very affected by her and it kinda caused me to touch the doll,” adding that the experience with the doll was so intense that “the owner didn’t like that too much.” That chilling revelation comes into sharper focus now.

Rivera, who worked closely with Bagans’ Haunted Museum and appeared on several paranormal series, passed away in early July.

According to Pennsylvania State Police, his death was ruled “natural,” with no signs of foul play, though final autopsy and toxicology results are still pending.

In his tribute to Rivera, Bagans called his colleague “a kind, gentle soul” whose passion for the paranormal made a real impact.

He emphasized the need to honor Rivera’s memory rather than dwell on the spooky timing. Despite the eerie coincidence of Rivera’s recent work with Annabelle, neither Bagans nor investigators are suggesting a supernatural link.

As investigators await the autopsy results and Rivera’s legacy continues through the ongoing tour, his death remains a poignant reminder of both fascination and caution in the field of paranormal investigation.