A floral tribute of roses and sunflowers has begun to take shape outside the Columbus home of Spencer and Monique Tepe as police continue their investigation into the tragic double homicide of the couple. The shocking discovery was made on Tuesday morning when officers responded to a welfare check at their Weinland Park residence on North 4th Street, where both Spencer, 37, and Monique, 39, were found deceased from gunshot wounds.
According to police, there were no apparent signs of forced entry into the home, and no firearm was discovered at the scene. Authorities initially ruled out the possibility of a murder-suicide in their investigation. The welfare check was instigated after Spencer, a dentist at Athens Dental Depot, failed to arrive at work. His employer, Dr. Mark Valrose, expressed deep concern when he contacted authorities, noting Tepe’s impeccable attendance record and the lack of communication regarding his absence.
The police report indicates the first call to law enforcement was made at 9:03 a.m., followed by an officer’s arrival at 9:22 a.m. with no response. As concern grew, several coworkers arrived at the Tepe residence, leading one friend to call the police again around 9:57 a.m. after hearing children crying inside but receiving no answer. That call resulted in the heartbreaking discovery of Spencer’s body inside the home.
Authorities confirmed that two young children were found unharmed within the residence during the incident. Further investigations revealed that Spencer had been shot multiple times, while Monique suffered at least one gunshot wound to the chest.
Dr. Valrose expressed the sorrow felt by the community, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our colleague and friend, Dr. Spencer Tepe.” He offered condolences to the family and acknowledged the outpouring of support from the community during this difficult time.
The couple, married in 2021, was preparing to celebrate their five-year anniversary. Rob Misleh, Spencer’s brother-in-law, shared a heartwarming statement reflecting the family’s grief. He described Spencer and Monique as extraordinary individuals whose lives were filled with love and connection. Spencer was not only a devoted father but also a committed member of his community; he volunteered for Big Brothers Big Sisters and was a passionate fan of local sports teams. Monique, with her background in childhood education, was described as patient and joyful, known for her baking and efforts to bring people together.
Misleh’s statement emphasized the family’s determination to seek justice for the couple while cherishing their memory and ensuring a loving future for their two children.
Columbus Police are continuing their investigation, led by Detective Weiner with assistance from Detective Miller. Authorities urge anyone with information to reach out to the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers. The community remains hopeful that answers will soon surface, bringing some measure of closure to this heartbreaking event.