Mattoon Murder/Suicide Confirmed

Mattoon Police Chief Jason Taylor confirmed a former Farina resident Rachel (Sigrist) McFarland was shot numerous times in the body by her husband Joseph McFarland before he apparently killed himself.

The McFarlands were found in their Mattoon home late Friday night after a neighbor reported hearing gunfire and lights were seen on inside the residence.

Taylor says Rachel was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the hospital, while her husband was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The couple leaves behind a ten-year-old son Colton McFarland.

Taylor says the Mattoon Police Officers wanted to help the young boy and have established a ‘Community Care Fund’ in his name at the 1st Mid Bank and Trust in Mattoon with all money raised going towards his education.

Those who wish to donate to assist Colton may do so through the Bank or the Mattoon Police Department at 1710 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon.

Rachel (Sigrist) McFarland grew up in Farina and was a 2001 graduate of South Central High School.