In a chilling development in one of Ohio’s most baffling recent crimes, Columbus police have released surveillance footage of a person of interest linked to the fatal shootings of dentist Dr. Spencer Tepe and his wife, Monique Tepe. The couple was discovered dead in their upscale Weinland Park home on December 30, 2025, sparking a frantic investigation that has gripped the community. With no arrests made and motive unknown, authorities hope the newly publicized video—capturing a lone figure walking near the scene during the suspected time of the killings—will generate crucial leads to identify and apprehend the individual.

A Tragic Discovery in a Family Home

The nightmare unfolded on the morning of December 30, 2025, when concerned colleagues from Athens Dental Depot—where Spencer worked as a dedicated practitioner—raised alarms after he failed to show up for his shift. Dr. Mark Valrose, the practice owner, described Spencer as reliably punctual and responsive, noting that both he and Monique were uncharacteristically unreachable. Multiple 911 calls followed, including reports of children crying inside the residence.

Police arrived for a welfare check around 9:30 a.m. and made the grim discovery: Spencer Tepe, 37, and Monique Tepe, 39, had been shot to death on the upper floor of their home. Spencer sustained multiple gunshot wounds, while Monique was struck once in the chest. Shell casings were recovered at the scene, but no weapon was found. Miraculously, the couple’s two young children—a 4-year-old daughter and 1-year-old son—were unharmed in another room, though distressed.

The home, where the Tepes had exchanged vows just months before their planned fifth anniversary, showed no signs of forced entry, adding layers of mystery to the case.

The Breakthrough: Surveillance Footage Emerges

On January 5, 2026—nearly a week into the investigation—Columbus police released brief but pivotal video footage. The clip shows a solitary figure walking through an alley adjacent to the Tepes’ residence between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on December 30, the narrow window investigators believe the murders occurred.

The individual appears to be wearing light-colored pants, a dark hooded jacket, and possibly carrying items, though details are limited due to the low-light conditions and distance. Police described the person as someone they urgently want to identify and speak with, emphasizing that this sighting aligns precisely with the timeframe of the crime.

The release has generated tips from the public, with detectives following up diligently. Authorities have appealed for any additional neighborhood footage from that night, particularly in the area bounded by Summit Street, North Grant Avenue, East 7th Avenue, and East 11th Avenue.

Who Were Spencer and Monique Tepe?

Spencer Tepe was a respected dentist, fluent in Spanish, with degrees from Ohio State University. He specialized in comprehensive care and implants at Athens Dental Depot, about 75 miles from Columbus, and was known for his warmth and dedication. Colleagues described him as intelligent, welcoming, and family-oriented.

Monique, a stay-at-home mother, was remembered as a loving partner and devoted parent. The couple’s life revolved around their young children, with friends and family portraying them as happy and deeply connected. A family statement highlighted Spencer’s pride in fatherhood and his endless kindness.

The tragedy struck just before what would have been their fifth wedding anniversary, in the very home where they began their married life—a detail that has deepened the community’s grief.

An Ongoing Mystery with No Clear Motive

Police have ruled out murder-suicide, treating the case as a targeted double homicide. No suspects have been named, and motive remains elusive. The lack of forced entry suggests the perpetrator may have been known to the victims or gained access another way.

As the investigation continues, detectives are exploring all possibilities, from personal connections to random intrusion. The children’s safety—spared physically but forever impacted—adds urgency to solving the case swiftly.

Community response has been one of shock and solidarity, with memorials growing outside the home and calls for justice echoing online. Tips can be submitted to the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or anonymously to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.

This release of video marks a critical step, bringing authorities tantalizingly close—”nearly found him”—to identifying a key figure. As the search intensifies, hope persists that public vigilance will lead to answers, closure, and accountability in this heartbreaking case.