Family Speaks Out About Monique Tepe’s Previous Marriage to Michael McKee Before She Married Dentist Spencer Tepe in Ohio: Friends Say She “Planned to Elope While Pregnant” While He Was at Work — A 2-Year Plan Now Revealed

As the investigation into the December 30, 2025, double homicide of Monique Tepe, 39, and her husband, dentist Spencer Tepe, 37, continues, new layers of Monique’s past have emerged through family statements. Monique’s brother-in-law, Rob Misleh, and other close sources have revealed the depth of torment she allegedly endured during her brief first marriage to vascular surgeon Michael David McKee—the man now charged with two counts of aggravated premeditated murder in their deaths.

Misleh, who spoke to NBC News and other outlets, described how Monique confided in him about emotional abuse, threats to her life “many times,” and a controlling dynamic that made her feel trapped. The marriage, which began on August 22, 2015, ended in separation after just eight months in March 2016, with divorce finalized in June 2017 citing “incompatibility.” No children were born during the union, and court records show a swift, uncontested process with no spousal support awarded.

Here are cherished family photos of Monique Tepe and Spencer Tepe during their happier years—smiling with their two young children, capturing the joy and stability she found after escaping her previous marriage:

These images highlight the beautiful life Monique built with Spencer, a stark contrast to the allegations of abuse that preceded it.

The Desperate Escape: A 2-Year Plan to Break Free

Friends and family close to Monique have shared that her departure from McKee was not impulsive but the result of careful, long-term planning. Sources describe a two-year strategy where Monique quietly prepared to leave while maintaining appearances. In one particularly chilling detail circulating among those who knew her, Monique allegedly confided that she had considered extreme measures, including planning to elope—potentially while pregnant (though no pregnancy occurred during the marriage)—to escape McKee’s control while he was at work. This reflects the fear and urgency she felt, as Misleh noted she was “willing to do anything to get out of there.”

Misleh emphasized Monique’s strength: “She was very vocal about being terrified of this guy till her death. He was very emotionally abusive to her, to the point that it changed her as a person.” He added that the abuse was verbal and mental, leaving Monique in constant fear even years after the divorce. Monique reportedly confided in multiple people about the threats and torment, describing the marriage as a “living hell” from which she needed to flee.

Here are symbolic images representing escape from abusive relationships—women walking toward light, broken chains, and doors opening to new beginnings—illustrating the courage Monique showed in planning her exit:

These visuals capture the silent determination many survivors exhibit when breaking free from coercive control.

Rebuilding with Spencer Tepe: A Second Chance at Love

After the divorce, Monique rebuilt her life. She met Spencer Tepe, a respected Columbus dentist, and the couple married in 2020. Their relationship was described as “beautiful, strong, and deeply happy,” bonded by travel, laughter, and family. Monique’s wedding vows reflected gratitude for overcoming past pain: “I had quite a journey to get to you, countless bad Bumble dates, wrong relationships, and waterfalls of tears. But it was worth every cringing second because it led me to you.”

They welcomed two children—a 4-year-old and a 1-year-old—who were unharmed in the home during the attack. Friends and family, including Spencer’s cousin Nikki Forte, remembered Spencer as deeply empathetic and family-oriented, always excited to play with children. Monique was “an amazing addition” to the family, her warmth and humor fitting perfectly.

Here are heartwarming images of happy blended families—couples with young children, laughing together—evoking the loving home Monique and Spencer created:

These photos underscore the tragedy of lives cut short just weeks before their fifth wedding anniversary.

The Tragic Connection: From Past Threats to Present-Day Violence

McKee, 39, was arrested in Rockford, Illinois, on January 11, 2026, after surveillance footage, vehicle tracking, and a recovered firearm linked him to the scene. The attack was described as targeted and domestic violence-related, with no forced entry—suggesting familiarity with the home. McKee waived extradition and is held in Ohio, intending to plead not guilty.

Family members expressed shock but noted the lingering fear Monique carried. Misleh said, “If any of us had known these threats were grounded and a possibility, we all would have acted differently.” The revelations have intensified discussions about post-separation abuse, coercive control, and how past trauma can resurface with deadly consequences.

Here are dramatic images of justice in motion—courtroom scenes, handcuffs, and scales of justice—symbolizing the ongoing pursuit of accountability in this case:

These visuals reflect the gravity of the charges and the family’s call for justice.

A Legacy of Strength and a Call for Awareness

Monique Tepe’s story is one of survival and resilience. She endured what family describes as emotional torment and threats, meticulously planned her escape over two years, and found renewed love and family with Spencer. Her murder, allegedly at the hands of the man she fled, has left two young children orphaned and a community in mourning.

The Tepe family has released statements thanking supporters and focusing on protecting the children while honoring Monique and Spencer’s love. As the case proceeds, Monique’s past serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of coercive relationships and the courage required to leave.

Rest in peace, Monique and Spencer Tepe. Your love and strength endure through those who knew you.