Columbus Couple Found Shot in Home Where They Married; Two Young Children Safe as Police Investigate Double Homicide

A Columbus couple who exchanged vows in their Weinland Park home in 2021 were found shot to death in that same residence a month before their fifth wedding anniversary, authorities said. Spencer Tepe, 37, a dentist, and his wife Monique, 39, a stay-at-home mother, were discovered dead Tuesday while their two young children, ages 1 and 4, were found unharmed and are now in relatives' care.

Police have classified the case as a double homicide and say the suspected killer or killers remain at large. Investigators reported no obvious signs of forced entry and that no firearm was recovered at the scene, according to reporting from CNN affiliate WSYX. Authorities have asked the public to come forward with any information that might help the investigation.

How the Case Unfolded

Concern began when Spencer Tepe did not arrive for work at Athens Dental Depot, about 75 miles southeast of the couple's Columbus home. The practice owner, Dr. Mark Valrose, placed the first 911 call at about 8:58 a.m. to request a welfare check, telling dispatchers Tepe's absence was uncharacteristic.

Police records show an officer arrived at the residence at 9:22 a.m. and received no answer. Around 9:56 a.m., someone at the scene called 911 saying they heard children crying inside. Shortly after 10:00 a.m., a friend who had last spoken with Spencer the previous day called 911 and reported finding a body. Officers located the bodies of Spencer and Monique Tepe and the couple's two children were found alive in the home.

Authorities in Columbus, Ohio, are searching for whoever killed dentist Dr. Spencer Tepe and his wife, Monique Tepe, at their home. - WSYX

Investigation Details

Columbus police have declined to release details on timing of the shootings, any potential suspects, or a motive. The Franklin County Coroner's Office said autopsies can take eight to ten weeks. Investigators plan to review forensic evidence, nearby camera footage, possible entry routes, and the family's background as they pursue leads, officials and analysts said.

There is a police crime camera on a utility pole a few hundred feet from the home, and reporters have asked whether nearby surveillance captured anything relevant. CNN Senior National Security Analyst Juliette Kayyem noted that the absence of a recovered firearm and the fact that the children were left alive help explain why detectives are treating the deaths as a double homicide rather than a murder-suicide.

Community And Family Response

A memorial of roses and sunflowers grew outside the house as the community absorbed the news just days after Christmas. Family members described Spencer and Monique as devoted parents who shared a joyful and loving relationship. The family said they are 'heartbroken beyond words' and committed to seeking justice while protecting the children's future.

Athens Dental Depot announced it would close for the remainder of the week and referred to Spencer's 'sudden passing' on Facebook. The family said Spencer was an Ohio State University graduate, a member of the American Dental Association, fluent in Spanish and a fan of Bengals and Buckeyes football. Monique had a background in childhood education and was described as a patient, joyful mother.

What Officials Are Asking: Anyone with information is urged to contact Columbus police to assist the ongoing double-homicide investigation.