COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Police in Columbus are again asking the public to share photos and video as investigators continue looking into the deaths of a dentist and his wife.
Spencer and Monique Tepe, both in their late 30s, were found dead with multiple gunshot wounds inside a home in the Weinland Park neighborhood on Tuesday, Dec. 30, according to Sgt. Joe Albert with the Columbus Division of Police.
Spencer Tepe was a dentist in Athens, according to a public biography, and graduated from Ohio State. Someone who worked with him called 911 Tuesday morning after he failed to show up for work. The caller said they could not reach him or his wife.
“He’s been reliable, and we cannot get in touch with him, his wife, his family, anybody that lives in that house,” the caller said. “He is always on time, and he would contact us if there’s any issues … we’re very, very concerned. And this is very out of character, and we can’t get in touch with his wife, which is probably the more concerning thing.”
Police said two children under the age of six were found inside the home. Both were unharmed and are safe.
Investigators said they do not yet know what led up to the incident, but they do not believe it was a murder-suicide. Albert said Tuesday that officers had not recovered a firearm and found no clear signs of forced entry.
“Our family is devastated by the tragic and senseless loss of Spencer and Monique,” the family said in a statement. “They were extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others.”
The family described Spencer Tepe as a “devoted and proud father, a loving partner, and a friend to everyone he met.” He was a fan of the Bengals and Buckeyes, a member of the American Dental Association, and volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Monique Tepe was described as a “loving, patient, and joyful mother whose warmth defined her.” The family said she had a background in childhood education and loved to bake.
“Together, Spencer and Monique shared a beautiful, strong, and deeply happy relationship,” the family said. “They loved to travel, to laugh, and to build a life rooted in love. They were proud parents of two beautiful children and their beloved Goldendoodle, and they created a home filled with warmth, happiness, and connection. We are heartbroken beyond words. While no outcome can ever undo this loss, our family is committed to seeing this tragedy fully and fairly brought to justice, and to honoring Spencer and Monique by protecting the future of the children they loved so deeply.”
Police are asking anyone who may have photos or video from midnight to 9 a.m. Tuesday in the area of Summit Street, North Grant Avenue, East 7th Avenue, and East 11th Avenue to submit them using the provided link. Tips can be shared anonymously, and no account is required.
Leave a Reply