Tragic End for Newlyweds Days Before First Anniversary
A Wisconsin couple discovered fatally shot in their car in Illinois died in a murder-suicide, according to official autopsy results released this week. Brandon Dumovich, 30, and his wife Rachel, 29, were found dead in Harvard, Illinois on October 6 after police responded to reports of a vehicle containing two deceased individuals.
The McHenry County Coroner's Office confirmed both victims died from single gunshot wounds to the head. Harvard Police Department stated their investigation determined Brandon shot and killed Rachel before turning the gun on himself. A firearm was recovered from inside the vehicle at the scene.
Decades-Long Relationship Ends in Tragedy
The couple's tragic deaths came just days before what would have been their first wedding anniversary on October 12. According to their wedding website on The Knot, Rachel and Brandon had known each other since middle school, maintaining a friendship for 15 years before beginning their romantic relationship in 2022.
Their social media accounts painted a picture of a happy couple. On the same day they were found dead, Rachel updated her Facebook profile picture with a selfie featuring Brandon. Minutes later, she posted another photograph from their trip to Greece with the caption: 'Forever chasing sunsets. Wishing we were back in Greece!'
Police discovered their bodies along Route 14, near North Division Street in Harvard late that evening. Authorities have described the deaths as 'tragic' but reassured the public there is 'no indication of any ongoing threat to the community'.
Notable Omissions in Obituaries
Despite their long-standing relationship and recent marriage, neither Rachel nor Brandon's loved ones mentioned their spouse in respective obituaries. Brandon, born in Barrington, Illinois, served as a petty officer in the US Navy and was remembered for his 'extraordinary ability to lift spirits and bring people together'.
Rachel, a Highland Park, Illinois native, graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2018 and most recently worked as a human resources manager. Her obituary described her as a 'natural connector, advocate, and loyal friend' with a 'strong sense of empathy, compassion, social justice, and fair play'.
Her family held a visitation and memorial service on October 17, while Brandon's family indicated a private memorial would be planned 'at a later date'.
The Harvard Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and has urged anyone with information to contact them at (815) 943-4431 or submit tips anonymously through Crimestoppers.
