Causes of Death Revealed for Wisconsin Newlyweds Found Dead in Car a Week Shy of First Anniversary
HARVARD, ILLINOIS — Six weeks after the tragic discovery of Wisconsin newlyweds Brandon and Rachel Dumovich dead inside their car, investigators have confirmed the heartbreaking cause of death: a homicide-suicide.
According to the Harvard Police Department, the couple were found with gunshot wounds to the head late on the night of October 6, less than a week before what would have been their first wedding anniversary. The case has since been closed as an isolated incident, with no ongoing threat to the community.
Police Confirm Husband Fatally Shot Wife Before Taking His Own Life
In a statement released Friday, the Harvard Police Department said the findings of the McHenry County Coroner’s Office determined that 30-year-old Brandon Dumovich fatally shot his wife, 29-year-old Rachel Dumovich, before turning the gun on himself.
“Based on the ongoing joint investigation and the findings of the McHenry County Coroner’s Office, the incident is being deemed a homicide-suicide,” police said. “The investigation indicates that Brandon Dumovich fatally shot Rachel Dumovich before taking his own life.”
Authorities confirmed that while detectives are still reviewing reports and evidence, all signs indicate the deaths were an isolated tragedy with no further public danger.
Tragic Discovery Along Route 14
According to a police report from October 8, an officer discovered the couple’s vehicle stopped on Route 14 in Harvard, Illinois, with its hazard lights flashing. When the officer approached to offer assistance, he found both Brandon and Rachel dead — Brandon in the passenger seat, and Rachel behind the wheel.
A firearm was located inside the vehicle.
The couple lived just a few miles away in Sharon, Wisconsin, a small village near the state border with Illinois.
A Love Story That Began in Middle School
Rachel and Brandon’s relationship stretched back to their childhood. According to their wedding website, the two first met at age 12 in middle school, remaining friends for more than 15 years before finally beginning to date in 2022.
Within two years, the longtime friends were married — their wedding held in 2023.
Rachel worked in human resources after graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, while Brandon was a U.S. Navy veteran who had recently celebrated his 30th birthday.
The couple’s obituaries made no mention of marital issues, and friends described them as deeply bonded and well-loved in their Wisconsin community.
Ongoing Grief and Community Impact
The deaths have shaken both the small towns of Harvard and Sharon, where the couple were known for their warmth and strong connection.
While the police investigation into their final days continues, officials reiterated that there is no indication of outside involvement in the shooting.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or domestic violence, confidential help is available:
- Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Text “STRENGTH” to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line
- Visit 988lifeline.org for free, 24/7 support
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