A young couple from Wisconsin was tragically found dead inside a car in northern Illinois on October 6, just days before they were set to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Middle-school sweethearts. Rachel and Brandon Dumovich’s love story began long before their wedding day. The couple met as classmates in middle school. Rachel shared on their wedding page on The Knot that she first caught Brandon’s attention by stealing cologne from his locker and running away with it. They stayed friends for 15 years before reconnecting and beginning to date in 2022.
Brandon proposed in the summer of 2023 at Big Cedar Lake in Slinger, Wisconsin — a place that holds special meaning for Rachel and her family. They exchanged vows on October 12, 2024, surrounded by friends and family. Rachel expressed her excitement for their future together, writing, “We can’t wait to share the next chapter of our love story surrounded by our friends and family!” Friends and relatives described Rachel and Brandon as inseparable. They shared a love of travel, the outdoors, and quiet evenings at home with their two dogs, Dash and Cedar. Tragically, their lives were cut short.
Hazard lights flashing
Just before midnight on October 6, a police officer noticed a vehicle stopped in Harvard, Illinois, with its hazard lights flashing. Upon approaching, the officer found the couple inside, both deceased. Initially, police issued an alert asking residents to stay sheltered due to the heavy police presence, but later confirmed that there was no ongoing threat to the community. The Harvard Police Department identified the victims as Rachel Noel Dumovich, 29, and Brandon Peter Dumovich, 30, both from Sharon, Wisconsin. Each had sustained a single gunshot wound, and a firearm was recovered at the scene. Harvard Police Chief Tyson Bauman told Fox News that the investigation is still ongoing.
“While a murder-suicide is a possible scenario, no final determination has been made,” Chief Bauman said. Hours before her death, Rachel posted on Facebook, “Forever chasing sunsets. Wishing we were back in Greece.” This post appeared to reference the couple’s honeymoon, according to Fox News. The McHenry County Coroner’s Office is conducting autopsies and toxicology tests, with support from the McHenry County Major Investigation Assistance Team (MIAT) for forensic analysis.
A strong sense of empathy
As the investigation continues, friends and family remain in shock over the loss. Rachel’s obituary described her as a loyal friend who loved cooking, fashion, decorating, and spending time by the water. “She had a strong sense of empathy, compassion, social justice, and fair play, always advocating for those who needed a voice. With her exuberant spirit, quick wit, and unfiltered humor, she brought energy and laughter to every room she entered,” the obituary read. Rachel earned a Bachelor of Business Administration, cum laude, from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and most recently worked as a Human Resources Manager at Climate Pros, LLC. Brandon served in the U.S. Navy, achieving the rank of petty officer. Outside of his military service, he enjoyed RC flying, boating, snowmobiling, fishing, and hunting. “Brandon proudly served his country as a Petty Officer in the United States Navy. His military service reflected his deep commitment to serving others, a quality that remained central throughout his life,” the obituary stated.
