Full Breakdown
Investigation Continues into the Murders of Spencer and Monique Tepe
1/6/2026, 5:59:44 AM
Overview of the Incident
On December 30, 2025, Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39, were found shot dead in their home in the Weinland Park neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. The couple was discovered after police conducted a welfare check prompted by concerns from friends and coworkers when Spencer failed to show up for work. Their two young children, aged 1 and 4, were found unharmed inside the residence.
Timeline of Events
- December 30, 2025: Spencer and Monique Tepe are believed to have been murdered between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. Police were alerted later in the morning when a coworker noticed Spencer's absence and called for a welfare check.
- Late Morning: Officers arrived at the Tepe home and found the couple deceased with apparent gunshot wounds. The children were discovered unharmed.
- January 5, 2026: Columbus Police released surveillance footage of a person of interest seen walking in an alley near the Tepe home during the time of the murders.
Details of the Crime
The Columbus Division of Police reported that Spencer suffered multiple gunshot wounds, while Monique was shot at least once in the chest. No weapons were recovered at the scene, and authorities ruled out a murder-suicide, citing the absence of forced entry and firearms. Three 9-millimeter shell casings were found inside the home.
Surveillance Footage and Community Involvement
The released surveillance video shows an individual in light-colored pants and a dark hooded jacket walking slowly in an alley adjacent to the Tepe residence during the critical timeframe. Columbus Police have urged the community to provide any additional video or information that could assist in identifying the person of interest. They have received numerous tips from the public, which detectives are actively following up on.
Official Statements & Responses
The Columbus Division of Police stated, “We know there are questions and concerns surrounding this tragic incident. Detectives are working diligently to solve this case.” Family members described Spencer and Monique as devoted parents whose lives were centered on service and community. A GoFundMe campaign established to support their children has raised over $154,000.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation is ongoing, some community members have expressed frustration over the lack of immediate leads and the slow pace of the investigation. Concerns have been raised about the safety of the neighborhood following the murders, with residents calling for increased police presence and community vigilance.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the exact timeline of events leading to the discovery of the bodies. Some reports indicate that police initially left the scene after the welfare check, while others suggest they returned due to reports of children being heard inside the home. Additionally, the motive for the killings remains unclear, with no suspects publicly identified as of yet.
What's Next
As the investigation continues, police are focusing on gathering more evidence and tips from the community. They are specifically asking for any digital evidence from the hours surrounding the murders, particularly from areas near the Tepe home. The Franklin County Coroner's Office is also expected to release further details as autopsy reports are finalized.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have received and are continuing to receive numerous tips from the community, which our detectives are following up on,” — Columbus Division of Police
- “Our family is devastated by the tragic and senseless loss of Spencer and Monique,” — Tepe Family Statement
