Ex-Husband Charged With Murdering Ohio Dentist Spencer Tepe and His Wife

Spencer Tepe, 37, a Columbus, Ohio dentist, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39, were found shot to death in their home on December 30, 2025, after a friend arrived and discovered Spencer in a pool of blood. The couple’s two young children, ages 4 and 1, were found safe inside the home. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office ruled both deaths homicides from gunshot wounds. Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant described the attack as “targeted.” Authorities said they believed the couple was killed between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on the home’s second floor. A firearm fitted with a silencer was reportedly used.

The Suspect

Michael David McKee, 39, of Chicago - Monique Tepe’s ex-husband, from whom she divorced in 2017 - was arrested in Rockford, Illinois, and charged with two counts of murder. Police had released surveillance video earlier in the week showing a person of interest walking in an alley near the victims’ home during the 2–5 a.m. window. McKee was tracked down as authorities pursued leads across multiple states. A relative of Spencer Tepe described McKee as having been emotionally abusive toward Monique. McKee has pleaded not guilty and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison if convicted. No motive has been publicly disclosed. The Tepe family said in a statement: “Today’s arrest represents an important step toward justice for Monique and Spencer. Nothing can undo the devastating loss of two lives taken far too soon.”

911 Calls

Newly released 911 audio documented urgent exchanges between callers and dispatchers as the situation unfolded at the couple’s home. The recordings captured pleas for assistance and confusion in the moments before first responders arrived, and helped establish a timeline for investigators. Authorities confirmed the audio was being reviewed as part of the ongoing case.

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