> At a Glance
> – Spencer and Monique Tepe discovered fatally shot in their Columbus home on Dec. 30
> – Two young children found safe inside the residence
> – Police say no signs of forced entry or firearms; case not a murder-suicide
> – Why it matters: Authorities seek public help as killer remains at large
Columbus police are investigating the double homicide of a dentist and his wife whose bodies were found inside their family home while their two children escaped physical harm.
The Discovery
A 911 call from Spencer’s workplace triggered the welfare check that uncovered the tragedy. Dr. Mark Valrose told dispatchers that Spencer had missed work, which was “very out of character” for the always-punctual dentist at Athens Dental Depot.
Officers arrived to find:
- Spencer Tepe, 37: multiple gunshot wounds
- Monique Tepe, 39: at least one gunshot wound to the chest
- No forced entry
- No firearms recovered at the scene
Remembering the Victims
Rob Misleh, Monique’s brother, shared glowing memories of the couple.
> “You never saw them without a smile on their face. They were so warm. Their place in Columbus was just where everybody gathered.”
Family statement highlights:
- Spencer: intelligent, endlessly welcoming, service-minded
- Monique: loving baker who thrived on bringing people together
- Both “lived for their children”
What Happens Next
Columbus Police Homicide Unit is asking anyone with information to contact:
- Direct line: (614) 645-4730
- Anonymous tips: Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS
Key Takeaways
- Double homicide shocks quiet Columbus neighborhood
- Two young children now orphaned
- Police have not identified any suspects
- Community urged to share any relevant details
Investigators continue to piece together why the well-liked couple was targeted in their own home.
