A chilling double homicide in Columbus, Ohio, unveils a tangled web of family dynamics, professional lives, and an alleged cross-state vendetta.
Story Snapshot
- Ohio dentist and his wife found dead in their home on Dec. 30, 2025.
- Ex-husband of the wife, a vascular surgeon, arrested and charged with murder.
- No signs of forced entry raise questions about the relationship dynamics.
- Two young children left orphaned but unharmed in the home.
The Mysterious Murders
On the last day of 2025, Columbus police discovered the bodies of Dr. Spencer Tepe, a well-regarded dentist, and his wife Monique Tepe in their home. The discovery followed a welfare check after Spencer failed to show up at work. Officers found the couple shot dead on the second floor, while their two young children were found unharmed. The absence of forced entry suggested the victims may have known their assailant.
Investigators quickly focused on Monique’s ex-husband, Dr. Michael David McKee, a vascular surgeon from Chicago. He was arrested on January 10, 2026, in Illinois and charged with two counts of murder. The case has drawn national attention due to the suspect’s professional status and the chilling nature of the crime.
A Complex Relationship Web
Monique and McKee had a history that added layers to the investigation. The couple divorced before Monique married Spencer, with whom she had two children. The lack of forced entry at the crime scene led to speculation about whether the assailant was let in by the victims or had access to the home, possibly pointing towards domestic ties and previous relationships.
The case is further complicated by a prior 911 call from the home in April 2025, initially reported as a domestic dispute. Family members clarified that this involved a party guest rather than Monique and Spencer, highlighting the often-misunderstood dynamics within the household.
Community and Family Impact
The tragic deaths of Spencer and Monique have left a significant impact on their community and family. Flowers and memorials outside their home signify the local mourning, while Athens Dental Depot, where Spencer worked, feels the loss of a valued colleague. The family has publicly expressed their commitment to protecting the children, who now face life without their parents.
Nationally, this case challenges stereotypes about domestic violence, highlighting that such incidents can occur within highly educated and professional circles. The case may influence future policies and practices related to domestic abuse screening.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, with police focusing on gathering forensic and digital evidence. Surveillance footage released by Columbus police shows a person of interest near the home during the suspected time of the killings, which the media has reported as McKee. The legal process is still in its early stages, with McKee awaiting extradition to Ohio to face charges.
As the case unfolds, it raises questions about domestic violence, custody, and the complex nature of personal relationships. The judicial system will play a crucial role in determining the outcome, while the family and community continue to grapple with the loss and seek justice.
