A Wisconsin couple in their late twenties were discovered deceased in their vehicle in northern Illinois on October 6, with their first wedding anniversary approaching within days.
Law enforcement officials continue to examine the troubling details surrounding the incident.
From Childhood Friends to Life Partners
The relationship between Rachel and Brandon Dumovich started decades before they walked down the aisle together.
Having first crossed paths as students in middle school, their initial encounter was memorable. As Rachel shared on their wedding website through The Knot: “I caught Brandon’s attention by stealing cologne from his locker and running away with it.”

Though they maintained a friendship spanning a decade and a half, romance blossomed when they reconnected in 2022. By the summer of 2023, Brandon chose Big Cedar Lake in Slinger, Wisconsin—a location that held sentimental value for Rachel’s family—as the backdrop for his proposal. Their marriage ceremony took place on October 12, 2024, with close friends and family in attendance.
“We can’t wait to share the next chapter of our love story surrounded by our friends and family!” Rachel had expressed while announcing their upcoming nuptials.
Those who knew the pair painted a picture of an inseparable duo who found joy in exploring new destinations, embracing nature, and spending peaceful moments at home with Dash and Cedar, their two beloved dogs.
Their story has now reached a heartbreaking end.
Discovery in Harvard
Shortly before the clock struck midnight on October 6, law enforcement noticed a stationary vehicle with its emergency flashers activated in Harvard, Illinois. Upon investigation, officers found two individuals inside, neither showing signs of life. Initially, police requested that area residents stay indoors as authorities worked the scene, though they subsequently clarified that no danger existed for the surrounding community.
The Harvard Police Department released the identities of those found: Rachel Noel Dumovich, age 29, and Brandon Peter Dumovich, age 30, residents of Sharon, Wisconsin.
Both individuals had suffered single gunshot injuries, and investigators located a firearm within the vehicle. Harvard’s Police Chief Tyson Bauman acknowledged to Fox News that the case remains under active investigation.
A representative from the coroner’s office informed Fox News Digital that initial examination results suggest both Rachel and Brandon sustained fatal gunshot wounds to their heads.
“While a murder-suicide is a potential scenario, no final determination has been made,” the representative stated.
Earlier that same day, Rachel had shared a social media post reading: “Forever chasing sunsets. Wishing we were back in Greece.” The message seemingly referenced their recent honeymoon travels, Fox News reported.
Remembered with Love
While investigators piece together the circumstances of that fateful night, those closest to Rachel and Brandon struggle to process the loss. Rachel’s memorial tribute celebrated her as a devoted friend with passions ranging from culinary arts to interior design, particularly enjoying time near bodies of water:
“She had a strong sense of empathy, compassion, social justice, and fair play, always championing those who needed a voice. With her exuberant spirit, quick wit, and unfiltered humor, she brought energy and laughter to every room she entered.”
Following her high school graduation, she completed a Bachelor of Business Administration with honors from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. Most recently, she held the position of Human Resources Manager at Climate Pros, LLC.
Brandon’s military service saw him achieve the rank of petty officer in the U.S. Navy. Beyond his service years, he pursued various recreational interests including remote-control aircraft flying, watercraft operation, winter sports, angling, and hunting expeditions.
“Brandon proudly served his country as a Petty Officer in the United States Navy. His time in the military reflected his deep commitment to service and his enduring passion for helping others — a quality that remained central throughout his life,” his memorial noted.
The Harvard Police Department welcomes any information regarding this case. Tips can be submitted by calling (815) 943-4431, through Crime Stoppers anonymously at (815) 943-4343, or via email at crimestoppers@cityofharvard.org.