SYCAMORE | What was previously being called a homicide/arson investigation is now believed to be a murder-suicide.

According to a Sycamore Police Department press release, Bridget A. DeCleene, 21, of Aurora died as a result of two gunshot wounds to the head. Robert G. Bevington, 63, of Sycamore died as a result of an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, and a rifle was recovered in close proximity to Bevington.

DeKalb County coroner Dennis Miller said it is believed that Bevington shot DeCleene, set the house on fire, and then shot himself.

Fire investigators have determined the fire was apparently intentionally set, as signs of an accelerant were found inside the structure.

Sycamore Police Chief Don Thomas said it is believed that the house and unoccupied vehicle parked in front of the house, which was also owned by Bevington, to be two separate fires.

“No one can remember the last time there was a murder-suicide in Sycamore,” Thomas said. “In the record system we have now, there is no record of a murder-suicide. The last murder was August 1991.”

Ellen Brandt, junior art education major, said DeCleene and her were best friends in high school.

“There’s not a bad bone in her body,” Brandt said. “It’s a complete and tragic loss.”