Authorities in Gwinnett County, Georgia, are investigating an apparent murder-suicide after a man and woman were found dead inside a residence on Clearwater Place Wednesday morning. Police said the incident appears to be a domestic-related shooting between two individuals who knew each other.
According to the Gwinnett County Police Department, officers were called to the 600 block of Clearwater Place around 9:41 a.m. for reports of a possible shooting. When they arrived, they discovered both individuals deceased in a bedroom. Investigators confirmed that each had suffered gunshot wounds, and a firearm was recovered at the scene.
The woman was later identified as Rachel Free, remembered by friends and family as a loving mother and loyal friend. The male involved has not yet been publicly identified pending next-of-kin notification. Investigators believe the man shot and killed Free before turning the gun on himself. Police emphasized that the case appears isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Cpl. Ryan Winderweedle, a spokesperson for Gwinnett County Police, stated that officers “found a male and female deceased in a bedroom,” reiterating that “this appears to be an isolated incident between two people that knew each other.” The Gwinnett County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the home to assist in the ongoing investigation.
A close family friend shared that Rachel Free had been planning to move out on the very day the tragedy occurred, ending a long-term relationship described as troubled. According to the friend, Free had already secured a new residence and was preparing to begin a new chapter in her life. “She was finally ready to move on and find peace,” the friend said, adding that the news of her death has devastated those who loved her.
Neighbors described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that the quiet Lawrenceville subdivision is rarely the scene of police activity. Many expressed disbelief and sorrow at the loss of a woman they said was “kind, hardworking, and always smiling.” Police are urging anyone with additional information about the case to contact Gwinnett County Police detectives at (770) 513-5300 or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta at (404) 577-TIPS (8477).