The shocking double homicide of Monique Tepe and her husband Spencer Tepe in their Columbus, Ohio home on December 30, 2025, has taken another dramatic turn with recent claims emerging online. A viral clip, reportedly from TikTok user srummy5, features what is described as an ex-girlfriend of the suspect, Michael David McKee (often referred to in some posts as “Chael David McKee” or similar variations, though official records confirm the name as Michael David McKee), speaking out about his character.

In the circulating content, the woman allegedly defends McKee, calling him “actually a very good person” while claiming that Monique Tepe “did something HORRIBLE” that provoked or contributed to his actions. This narrative appears to stem from unverified social media discussions and a YouTube video titled “Michael McKee’s EX GF After Monique Tepe speaks out. Proof that he used a silencer. Official charges” (published January 16, 2026), which aggregates TikTok clips and speculation.

However, credible news reports from major outlets like People, ABC News, USA Today, and the Associated Press present a starkly different picture. No mainstream source has confirmed any statement from an ex-girlfriend of McKee defending him in this manner or attributing blame to Monique for “something horrible.” Instead, family members of the victims and friends have described McKee as allegedly emotionally abusive and controlling during his brief marriage to Monique.

Here are images of the key figures involved in this tragic case, drawn from public reports:

These show Monique Tepe and Spencer Tepe, the victims, alongside booking photos of the suspect Michael David McKee.

The Crime and Investigation

Monique Tepe (39) and Spencer Tepe (37), a dentist, were found shot to death in their Weinland Park home. Their two young children (ages 1 and 4) were physically unharmed but present, as was the family dog. Police described the attack as targeted and domestic violence-related, with no forced entry.

Surveillance footage captured a vehicle arriving near the home just before the murders and leaving shortly after. Investigators traced it to McKee, a 39-year-old vascular surgeon living in Chicago and working in Rockford, Illinois. He was arrested on January 10, 2026, in Rockford. A search of his property recovered multiple firearms, one of which preliminarily matched ballistic evidence from the scene (including possible use of a silencer, per some reports).

Charges were upgraded to premeditated aggravated murder (four counts) and aggravated burglary (one count). McKee waived extradition and is expected to be returned to Ohio, where he intends to plead not guilty.

Here are visuals of the crime scene aftermath and related evidence from news coverage:

These depict tributes outside the Tepe home and police activity in the investigation.

What Family and Friends Have Said

Monique’s family and friends have spoken publicly, painting a troubling picture of her past relationship with McKee. They married in August 2015 but divorced less than two years later (finalized in 2017), citing incompatibility. Monique reportedly confided in relatives about emotional abuse, manipulation, and multiple death threats during the marriage.

Rob Misleh, Spencer’s brother-in-law, told ABC News and others: “She just had to get away from him… She was terrified because he had threatened her life on multiple occasions.” Another friend described McKee as “controlling” and said seeing Monique thrive in her new marriage “destroyed his fragile little ego.”

No reports mention any “horrible” act by Monique that justified violence. The family emphasized her strength in leaving the relationship and building a happy life with Spencer, whom she married in 2020.

The Ex-Girlfriend Claim: Speculation vs. Verified Facts

The defense of McKee as “a very good person” and accusations against Monique appear confined to social media rumors, TikTok clips, and YouTube compilations. These may reflect unverified personal opinions or misinformation amid the case’s high profile. Official investigations and family statements do not support or reference such claims.

McKee has invoked his right to remain silent and has not publicly commented. His employer, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, stated it is cooperating with authorities.

This case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the long-lasting impact of abusive relationships. The Tepe family has expressed gratitude for community support and a desire for justice, focusing on protecting the children left behind.

Here are somber images of the Chicago skyline and Columbus neighborhoods, symbolizing the cross-state tragedy:

The investigation continues, with McKee awaiting trial. Authorities urge the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed rumors.