Ongoing Mystery in the Double Homicide of Spencer and Monique Tepe: Investigation Enters Second Week

As of January 7, 2026, the investigation into the shooting deaths of Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39, in their Columbus, Ohio home continues without arrests, suspects, or a disclosed motive. The couple was discovered deceased on December 30, 2025, following welfare checks initiated after Spencer failed to appear for his dental shift. Their two children—a 4-year-old girl and 1-year-old boy—along with the family dog, remained unharmed in the residence and are now with relatives.

Columbus police have classified the incident as a double homicide, firmly ruling out murder-suicide. The shootings occurred on the upper floor between approximately 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., with Spencer sustaining multiple gunshot wounds and Monique at least one to the chest. Three 9mm shell casings were found, but no weapon was recovered. No signs of forced entry or theft were noted, suggesting the perpetrator may have entered without resistance.

On January 5, authorities released surveillance footage of a person of interest: a hooded individual in a dark jacket and light-colored pants, walking deliberately through a nearby snowy alley during the estimated time of the crimes. Police have reported receiving tips in response and continue to seek additional video from the Weinland Park area, bounded by Summit Street, North Grant Avenue, East 7th Avenue, and East 11th Avenue, covering midnight December 29 to 9 a.m. December 30.

The discovery stemmed from multiple 911 calls starting around 9 a.m., when colleagues at Athens Dental Depot grew concerned over Spencer’s absence and lack of communication. Friends and co-workers arrived at the home, with one spotting a body through a window and hearing children inside. Police entered and confirmed the deaths.

Family statements paint a picture of a vibrant, devoted couple. Spencer, an Ohio State University graduate with degrees in biology, Spanish, and dental surgery, was known for his fluency in Spanish, community involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and enthusiasm for the Cincinnati Bengals and Buckeyes. Monique, with experience in childhood education, was celebrated for her baking skills, warmth, and role as a gathering force for loved ones. Married in a heartfelt at-home ceremony in January 2021, they were nearing their fifth anniversary.

Neighbors describe the Tepes as approachable but low-key, with the revitalizing Weinland Park community reeling from the violence. No residents reported hearing shots or observing anomalies that night, and police have assured there is no ongoing public threat.

The Franklin County Coroner’s Office awaits full toxicology and autopsy results, potentially delaying completion for weeks. Investigators emphasize a thorough approach, following leads from public submissions while withholding sensitive details.

Unverified reports circulating online about the couple’s phones—such as them being found unlocked in separate rooms or complications arising from the last incoming caller—have not appeared in any official releases or established media coverage as of January 7. If substantiated in the future, such details could hypothetically point to interactions prior to the shootings or efforts to stage the scene, but currently, they remain unsubstantiated rumor amid widespread speculation.

Similarly, earlier unconfirmed claims regarding packages, extended doorstep conversations, or specific forensic evidence lack corroboration from authorities.

This case highlights the difficulties in resolving apparent targeted homicides absent immediate witnesses or evident motives. The combination of no forced entry, undisturbed children and pet, and recovered casings without a gun fuels theories of a personal connection, though police have not endorsed any specific scenario.

The Tepe family remains focused on supporting the children and pursuing justice, with a GoFundMe aiding their future needs garnering strong community response. Memorials continue outside the home as Columbus awaits developments.

Police urge continued tips to the homicide unit or anonymous submissions to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers, expressing optimism in eventual resolution through evidence and public cooperation.

In a tragedy that has captivated central Ohio, the senseless loss of Spencer and Monique Tepe underscores life’s fragility, leaving behind orphaned toddlers and a community grappling with unresolved questions.