Claim of Unused Secondary Entrance in Spencer and Monique Tepe Murder Case Appears Unsubstantiated
As the investigation into the tragic double homicide of Columbus dentist Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39, continues into January 2026, online rumors persist—including a recent claim that a “secondary entrance” to their Weinland Park home was used on the night of the killings despite not being opened for over six months according to “family records.” However, no credible news reports, police statements, or family comments support this specific detail.
The couple was found shot to death upstairs in their North 4th Street residence on December 30, 2025, after welfare checks triggered by Spencer’s absence from Athens Dental Depot. Their two young children and family Goldendoodle were unharmed. Authorities have consistently reported no obvious signs of forced entry, no firearm recovered, and no evidence of robbery, pointing toward a targeted attack possibly by someone known to the victims or who gained access without force.
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Columbus Police estimate the shootings occurred between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. Surveillance footage released January 5 shows a hooded “person of interest” in light pants and a dark jacket walking slowly through a snowy alley toward the Tepes’ garage during that window—a lead that has generated hundreds of tips but no arrests.
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Reports mention front and back doors in the context of police knocking during welfare checks—with no answer—but nothing about a secondary entrance being unused or specifically accessed that night. The alley leads to the garage, suggesting possible rear access, yet no official confirmation ties this to an overlooked or dormant entry point.
Family spokesperson and brother-in-law Rob Misleh has focused on grief and justice, describing the couple’s “beautiful, strong, and deeply happy relationship” while caring for the children. A GoFundMe has raised over $170,000 for their future.
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Spencer, an Ohio State graduate fluent in Spanish and Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer, was energetic and generous. Monique, with a childhood education background, was remembered as warm and an excellent baker. The couple married in their home in 2021, weeks from their fifth anniversary.
Previous unsubstantiated rumors—such as group chats, missing bedside items, or unusual dog behavior—have similarly lacked verification. Police urge tips via Central Ohio Crime Stoppers, emphasizing verified information.
The lack of forced entry remains a key puzzle, suggesting familiarity or deception, but the “secondary entrance” claim joins a pattern of unconfirmed speculation in this heartbreaking case.
