Full Breakdown
Tragic Double Homicide of Ohio Dentist and Wife Leaves Community in Shock
1/9/2026, 6:51:05 AM
Overview of the Incident
On December 30, 2023, Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39, were found shot to death in their Columbus, Ohio home. The couple's two young children, aged 1 and 4, were discovered unharmed inside the residence. The police were alerted after Spencer failed to show up for work, prompting a welfare check initiated by his employer, Dr. Mark Valrose, who was vacationing in Florida at the time.
Discovery of the Bodies
Multiple 911 calls were made that morning, including one from a friend of Spencer's, Alex Ditty, who reported hearing the children crying inside the home. Upon arrival, police initially left the scene after receiving no response to their knocks. However, Ditty later called again, stating he could see a body and described the bloody scene to the dispatcher. Spencer was found lying next to his bed, and Monique had been shot at least once in the chest. Authorities found three spent 9-millimeter shell casings at the scene, but no firearms or signs of forced entry, leading investigators to rule out a murder-suicide scenario.
Investigation Status
As of now, Columbus police have not publicly identified any suspects or persons of interest in the case. The investigation is being treated as a double homicide. Surveillance footage released by authorities shows a hooded figure walking near the couple's home around the time of the killings, but the individual remains unidentified. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.
Community Response and Family Impact
The tragic deaths have left family members and the community in shock. Rob Misleh, Monique's brother-in-law, expressed the family's grief, stating, "We’re all still in shock and obviously angry and just trying to piece this together." He emphasized that Spencer and Monique were devoted parents whose lives revolved around their children. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the couple's children, raising approximately $140,000 to date.
Criticism and Clarifications
In the wake of the investigation, a previously released 911 call from April 2023, which was linked to a "domestic dispute" at the Tepe residence, has drawn attention. Misleh has clarified that the voice on the call does not belong to Monique, asserting that the incident was unrelated to the couple's current situation.
Conclusion
The investigation into the deaths of Spencer and Monique Tepe continues, with many questions remaining unanswered. The couple's children are currently in the care of extended family members, who are providing support during this difficult time. The community mourns the loss of the Tepe family, as authorities work diligently to uncover the truth behind this tragic event.
