Couple in Illinois died from head gunshot wounds, according to officials.

Couple Found Dead Days Before Wedding Anniversary

Authorities in Illinois revealed the cause of death for a newlywed couple discovered in their car just before their wedding anniversary. On October 6, police in Harvard found the couple after an officer noticed a parked vehicle with its hazard lights activated. After checking, they found both individuals had died.

The victims were identified as Rachel Dumovich, 29, and Brandon Dumovich, 30, residents of Sharon, Wisconsin, according to the McHenry County Coroner’s Office.

Preliminary investigations suggest that both Rachel and Brandon died from gunshot wounds to the head. Harvard Police Chief Tyson Bauman mentioned that although the situation might point towards a murder-suicide, it was still too early to make a definitive conclusion. The complete autopsy results have yet to be disclosed.

Police indicated that a firearm was located inside the vehicle. Additionally, the McHenry County Major Investigation Support Team has been organized to handle the case. Following the discovery, officers advised nearby residents to shelter in place but later confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the area.

Rachel’s wedding page on The Knot described the couple as middle school sweethearts. Rachel recounted her first encounter with Brandon at age 12, sharing that she caught his attention by playfully taking cologne from his locker. Their friendship evolved over the years, and they began dating in 2022.

Brandon proposed in the summer of 2023 at Big Cedar Lake, and they celebrated their wedding there on October 12, 2024. Rachel had expressed her excitement about starting a new chapter of their life together in a letter announcing their marriage.

Just hours before her death, Rachel posted on social media, reflecting on their honeymoon and fondly mentioning Greece, saying, “Forever chasing the sunset. I wish I could go back to Greece.”

Law enforcement is urging anyone with information to reach out to the Harvard Police Department at (815) 943-4431 or submit anonymous tips via the Crime Stoppers hotline at (815) 943-4343.