Full Breakdown
Investigation Continues into the Murders of Spencer and Monique Tepe
1/10/2026, 6:56:59 AM
Timeline of Events Surrounding the Murders
Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39, were found dead in their Columbus, Ohio home on December 30, 2025. The couple was discovered after a friend conducted a wellness check when Spencer failed to show up for work. Police believe the murders occurred between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. that morning. The initial 911 call reporting the couple's deaths was made at 10:05 a.m., after a friend reported seeing a body inside the residence. The couple's two young children were found unharmed in the home.
Key Details from the Crime Scene
Authorities have confirmed that both Spencer and Monique died from apparent gunshot wounds, with Spencer suffering multiple wounds and Monique shot at least once in the chest. Notably, there were no signs of forced entry into the home, and no weapon was recovered at the scene. This lack of forced entry raises concerns about the nature of the crime, suggesting a possible familiarity with the victims. The Franklin County Coroner's Office has ruled the deaths as homicides.
Surveillance Footage and Person of Interest
Columbus police released grainy surveillance footage showing a person of interest walking in an alley near the Tepe home during the critical timeframe of the murders. The individual was dressed in light-colored pants and a dark hooded jacket, appearing to walk slowly with their head down. Police have requested assistance from the public in identifying this person, emphasizing the importance of any additional video or information from the area.
Community Response and Family Statements
The Tepe family has expressed their heartbreak over the tragic loss, describing Spencer as a devoted father and Monique as a loving mother. Family members have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the couple's children, which has raised over $146,000. Rob Misleh, Spencer's brother-in-law, is now caring for the children and has stated that the couple was well-liked in their community, with no known enemies.
Criticism of Police Response
Concerns have been raised regarding the police response during the initial welfare check. Reports indicate that an officer mistakenly went to the wrong address before returning to the Tepe home approximately 40 minutes later, which may have delayed the discovery of the bodies. Police Chief Elaine Bryant acknowledged this error, stating that the officer followed protocol but was dispatched to an incorrect location.
Conflicting Reports and Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. While the community is shaken by the violence, the police have not yet identified a suspect. The investigation is complicated by the absence of a clear motive and the lack of evidence pointing to a break-in. As the case develops, authorities continue to sift through tips and evidence in hopes of bringing clarity to this tragic incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They were extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others,” — Family Statement
- “The longer this goes, the greater likelihood that the leads get weaker and weaker," he said, calling time "the enemy" in high-profile homicide investigations.” — Jeffrey Halstead, Former Police Chief
- “I do think, you know, (it’s a) suspicious-looking person there.” — Rob Misleh, Brother-in-law of Spencer Tepe
The community remains on edge as they await further developments in the investigation into the murders of Spencer and Monique Tepe.
