Just before midnight, a Harvard, Illinois police officer stopped to check on a vehicle with its hazard lights blinking. What seemed like a routine assist quickly became tragic: inside the car were two people dead — Rachel and Brandon Dumovich, a young Wisconsin couple days away from their first wedding anniversary.
Rachel and Brandon had known each other since middle school, reconnected as adults, began dating in 2022, and married in October 2024. They shared two dogs, a love of travel, and a bond their friends described as inseparable.
At 11:52 p.m. on October 6, 2025, police found them deceased in their vehicle. A gun was recovered, and both had gunshot wounds. After autopsy results were returned, investigators determined Brandon shot Rachel and then himself. Police are treating the case as a murder-suicide while continuing to review evidence.
Hours before her death, Rachel posted a sunset photo from Greece, believed to be from their honeymoon.
Rachel, of Crystal Lake, Illinois, was remembered for her empathy, humor, and successful HR career. Brandon, a U.S. Navy Petty Officer, was known for his dedication to service and passion for outdoor hobbies. Both leave behind grieving families and friends.