Wichita police are investigating a homicide after a missing woman was found dead inside a vehicle at a south Wichita home. The victim has been identified as 43-year-old Rachel Johnson of Wichita.
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, at approximately 5:17 p.m., officers received a report of a missing person under suspicious circumstances. Due to the nature of the case, homicide investigators were assigned later that evening.
Johnson was last seen by family members on the morning of September 26 around 9:30 a.m., driving her black 2014 Ford Fusion.
On Sunday, September 28, investigators were led to a residence in the 1800 block of South Longford Circle. At the scene, officers located Johnson’s vehicle and discovered her deceased inside. When officers entered the home, they found a 39-year-old man in the basement dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police say preliminary findings suggest Johnson and the man had a prior domestic relationship.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Statement from Chief Joe Sullivan:
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy. A mother has lost her life to a senseless and cowardly act, leaving a family devastated and a community grieving.
As we approach October—Domestic Violence Awareness Month—we are reminded that domestic violence continues to impact countless lives, often in silence and behind closed doors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, call 911 immediately. If it’s not safe to call right away, reach out when you can to trusted local resources such as Harbor House or the Wichita Family Crisis Center.
No one should have to live in fear in their own home. Help is available. You are not alone.”
Police urge anyone with information to call the WPD Homicide Section at 316-268-4407 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.
