A manhunt that captivated the nation for over ten days has culminated in the arrest of a suspect linked to the tragic deaths of Spencer and Monique Tepe in their Columbus, Ohio home. Monique Tepe’s ex-husband, identified as 39-year-old Michael David McKee, was taken into custody on Saturday, facing two counts of murder according to an incident report.
The couple was discovered dead from apparent gunshot wounds on December 30, within their upscale residence while their two young children, aged 4 and 1, were found unharmed inside. This chilling discovery has raised numerous questions regarding the events leading up to the murders, as law enforcement has been tight-lipped about the specifics of the investigation and the potential motives.
In the days following the tragedy, surveillance footage surfaced showing a “person of interest” in the vicinity of the Tepe home during the timeframe of the killings. However, police have not elaborated on the significance of this individual, further deepening the mystery around the case.
McKee is currently in custody in Winnebago County, Illinois, and is scheduled to appear in court shortly. His arrest occurred “without incident” in Rockford, Illinois, but as of yet, there has been no confirmation regarding his legal representation.
Concern for the Tepes arose when Spencer, a dentist with Athens Dental Depot, unexpectedly missed work, prompting colleagues to request a wellness check. Their alarm escalated when a friend arrived at the home, ultimately discovering the distressing scene. This tragic situation has left the couple’s children and family dog in the care of relatives, while football and flowers adorned the Tepe home—once a joyous site of their wedding vows, now marked by sorrow.
The Franklin County Coroner’s Office has classified the deaths as homicides, with an official autopsy report pending for several weeks. The investigation remains active, and police have urged community members to come forward with any information that could assist in further clarifying the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
As the community seeks answers and healing in the aftermath of this tragedy, there is hope that justice will be served for Spencer and Monique Tepe and that their children will find the love and support they need during this incredibly difficult time.