Newlywed Couple Found Dead in Car Days Before Their First Anniversary

A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken two communities after a young Wisconsin couple was discovered dead inside a vehicle in northern Illinois on October 6 — just days before they were to mark their first wedding anniversary. Authorities have launched a full investigation to uncover what led to their untimely deaths.

A love story that began in childhood

Rachel and Brandon Dumovich’s bond went back long before marriage. The two first met as classmates in middle school. On their wedding website, Rachel fondly recalled how she once playfully caught Brandon’s attention by stealing his cologne from his locker and running away with it. Though life took them in different directions, their friendship endured for 15 years until they reconnected in 2022 — this time, falling in love for good.

In the summer of 2023, Brandon proposed at Big Cedar Lake in Slinger, Wisconsin, a cherished place for Rachel and her family. The couple exchanged vows on October 12, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Rachel expressed her joy online, writing, “We can’t wait to share the next chapter of our love story surrounded by our friends and family!” Friends and relatives described them as inseparable — sharing passions for travel, outdoor adventures, and cozy nights at home with their two dogs, Dash and Cedar. But their joyful story took a tragic turn.

The night everything changed

Just before midnight on October 6, a police officer in Harvard, Illinois, noticed a car stopped with its hazard lights flashing. When the officer approached, the couple was found inside, both deceased. Authorities initially advised residents to shelter in place due to the large police presence but later confirmed that there was no ongoing danger to the public.

The victims were identified as Rachel Noel Dumovich, 29, and Brandon Peter Dumovich, 30, both of Sharon, Wisconsin. Each had a single gunshot wound, and a firearm was discovered in the vehicle. Harvard Police Chief Tyson Bauman told Fox News that the investigation remains active, adding, “While a murder-suicide is one possible scenario, no final determination has been made.”

Just hours before her death, Rachel posted a photo on Facebook with the caption, “Forever chasing sunsets. Wishing we were back in Greece.” The post is believed to have referenced their honeymoon. Autopsies and toxicology reports are being conducted by the McHenry County Coroner’s Office, with assistance from the Major Investigation Assistance Team (MIAT).

Remembered for their kindness and compassion

Loved ones are mourning the sudden loss of two people described as deeply caring and full of life. Rachel’s obituary painted a picture of a woman with endless empathy and spirit — someone who loved fashion, decorating, cooking, and being near the water. “She had a strong sense of empathy, compassion, and fairness — always standing up for those who needed a voice. Her wit and humor could light up any room,” the obituary read.

Rachel graduated cum laude from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee with a degree in Business Administration and worked as a Human Resources Manager at Climate Pros, LLC.

Brandon, who served proudly in the U.S. Navy as a petty officer, was remembered for his dedication to helping others. Outside of his service, he loved RC flying, fishing, boating, hunting, and snowmobiling. “His devotion to serving others didn’t end with his military career — it was simply who he was,” his obituary stated.

As investigators work to determine what happened that night, friends and family continue to grieve the devastating loss of a couple whose love began in childhood and ended far too soon.