The investigation into the brutal killings of Columbus dentist Dr. Spencer Tepe and his wife Monique Tepe has taken a chilling turn, with authorities indicating that the perpetrator could be someone the couple knew. The absence of forced entry at their Weinland Park home—combined with the targeted nature of the attack—has led detectives to explore personal connections as a primary angle. As the case enters its second week without arrests, this development has deepened the mystery surrounding the motive and sent shockwaves through the community.

A Family Torn Apart

Spencer Tepe, 37, and Monique Tepe, 39, were found shot to death in their upstairs bedroom on the morning of December 30, 2025. The discovery came after a welfare check prompted by Spencer’s unusual absence from work at Athens Dental Depot. Colleagues and friends, alarmed by unanswered calls, contacted police, leading to the heartbreaking find.

Spencer had been shot multiple times, while Monique suffered a single gunshot wound to the chest. Shell casings were scattered at the scene, but no weapon was recovered. In a small miracle amid the horror, the couple’s two young children—a 4-year-old girl and 1-year-old boy—were found unharmed in another room, though visibly distressed and crying.

The home on North 4th Street held special significance: it was where the Tepes exchanged vows in a intimate 2021 ceremony during the pandemic. They were just weeks away from celebrating their fifth anniversary, a milestone now forever overshadowed by tragedy.

Key Clue: No Forced Entry Suggests Familiarity

One of the most startling details emerged early: there were no signs of forced entry. This critical fact has shaped the investigation, pointing toward someone who was either let in voluntarily or had access to the home. Police have ruled out murder-suicide, confirming the case as a targeted double homicide.

While no official statement explicitly names an acquaintance as the killer, the lack of break-in evidence—coupled with the family’s portrayal as private yet friendly—has fueled speculation that the perpetrator was known to the victims. Detectives are examining personal relationships, professional contacts, and any potential disputes, though no motive has been publicly disclosed.

On January 5, 2026, police released surveillance video of a person of interest: a figure in a dark hooded jacket and light pants walking in a nearby alley between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.—the estimated time of the shootings. The individual has not been identified, and tips are pouring in as authorities urge the public to review any footage from the area.

Portraits of the Victims: A Life of Love and Service

Spencer and Monique were remembered as devoted parents and kind souls. Spencer, fluent in Spanish and committed to community service through Big Brothers Big Sisters, was a passionate Ohio State and Bengals fan. Monique, with a background in childhood education, was a loving stay-at-home mom known for her baking and warmth.

Family statements paint a picture of a joyful household centered on their children and Goldendoodle. The senseless loss has left relatives devastated, vowing justice while focusing on the youngsters’ future.

Community Shock and Ongoing Probe

The Weinland Park neighborhood, once seeing improvement, now grapples with unease. Memorials of flowers grow outside the home, symbolizing collective mourning. Police assure no broader threat but continue canvassing for witnesses and footage.

As forensics and autopsies proceed, the focus on familiarity adds poignancy—if true, it underscores how danger can lurk closest. The case remains active, with hope that the person of interest video will yield breakthroughs.

This tragedy reminds us of vulnerability in everyday life. The search for justice continues, honoring a couple whose light touched many.