> At a Glance
> – Monique Tepe, 39, and Spencer Tepe, 37, were killed in their Columbus home between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Dec. 30
> – Their 4-year-old daughter and 1-year-old son were found physically unharmed but crying
> – No firearms or signs of forced entry were discovered at the scene
> – Why it matters: The children are now with relatives struggling to explain the tragedy, while police hunt for a hooded figure seen nearby
Columbus police discovered the couple after a friend requested a welfare check, hearing children crying inside the residence around 10 a.m.
The Crime Scene
Investigators believe the murders occurred while the toddlers were asleep in their own rooms, likely shielding them from witnessing the violence.
Authorities have shared minimal details about potential suspects or motives nearly a week later.
- No weapons recovered
- No evidence of break-in
- Surveillance video released Monday shows a hooded person in a nearby alley during the estimated time of the killings
Family’s Heartbreak
Relatives are caring for both children and grappling with how to break the news to the 4-year-old.
Rob Misleh, married to Spencer’s sister, tells News Of Los Angeles:
> “We’ve all been grappling with how to tell a 4-year-old that they’re never gonna see their parents again. We just don’t know how to do that.”
He adds:
> “I’m sure she’s wondering when is she gonna see her mommy and daddy again. It’s just really hard to get into her mind.”
Family members are keeping the girl distracted with games, while Misleh notes the 1-year-old “will never have any memory of the parents.”
Investigation Status
Police urge anyone with information to contact:
- Columbus police: 614-645-2228
- Central Ohio Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 614-461-8477
Key Takeaways
- Double homicide shocks Columbus neighborhood
- Two toddlers survived unharmed but now face life without parents
- Investigators seek public help identifying hooded figure caught on video
- The couple was one month shy of their fifth wedding anniversary
