The community of Columbus, Ohio, reels from the shocking double homicide of a beloved dentist and his wife, Spencer and Monique Tepe. In a critical development, Ohio police have released surveillance footage featuring a “person of interest” seen near the couple’s home around the time of the fatal shootings. This appeal to the public marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation into the tragic deaths that have left two young children orphaned and a family shattered.
This article synthesizes the latest information and offers insights into the complexities surrounding the investigation, the profound impact on the Tepe family, and the urgent call for community assistance. The pursuit of justice for Spencer, 37, and Monique, 39, remains a top priority for law enforcement and their heartbroken loved ones.
Unraveling the Columbus Double Homicide: A Timeline of Tragedy
The devastating events unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in the Near East Side neighborhood of downtown Columbus. Investigators believe Spencer and Monique Tepe were fatally shot inside their N. 4th Street residence, specifically on the top floor, between 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. Spencer, a respected dentist practicing in Athens, Ohio, and Monique, a devoted partner and mother, were weeks away from celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary.
The grim discovery occurred much later that morning. After Spencer failed to report to his dental office, concerned colleagues and friends initiated welfare checks. Around 10:00 a.m., their bodies were found with apparent gunshot wounds. The Franklin County coroner’s office later confirmed the cause of death as homicide by gunshot wounds, though official reports are still pending finalization.
Initial Crime Scene Findings Reveal Puzzling Details
The scene of the Columbus double homicide presented investigators with several perplexing elements. Crucially, there were no signs of forced entry into the Tepe family home, suggesting either the perpetrators knew the victims or gained access without force. Furthermore, no weapons were recovered at the scene, indicating the murder weapon was removed. Preliminary investigative reports, however, confirmed the discovery of three 9mm shell casings inside the residence, providing a vital piece of forensic evidence.
Adding to the profound tragedy, the couple’s two young children – a 4-year-old girl and a 1-year-old boy – were found unharmed inside the home. They are now safe with relatives, receiving immense love and support as they navigate an incomprehensible loss. Police swiftly ruled out the possibility of a murder-suicide, confirming the ongoing criminal investigation.
Person of Interest Emerges: A Critical Surveillance Video
On January 5, 2026, nearly a week after the horrific crime, the Columbus Division of Police released a crucial piece of evidence: surveillance video of a person of interest. The brief footage captured an individual walking through an alley adjacent to the Tepe residence during the critical 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. timeframe on December 30.
The individual, described as having a male stature, was seen wearing a dark, hooded top and lighter-colored pants, with their hands tucked into their pockets. Unfortunately, the person’s face is obscured, making direct identification challenging. Despite this, law enforcement is urging the public to carefully review the video and report any information that could lead to an identification.
The Power of Community Tips in High-Stakes Investigations
The release of the surveillance video underscores the police’s reliance on community engagement in solving the Tepe murders. Columbus police have stated they are actively receiving and following up on numerous tips. The effectiveness of such an appeal lies in the collective memory and observations of residents, particularly in an area like Weinland Park, known for its extensive surveillance camera presence.
Local residents, like Lana Oriani, have pointed out the multitude of cameras in the vicinity, including “more than two dozen cameras nearby, not including police cameras across the street.” This widespread coverage offers hope that additional footage or eyewitness accounts might shed light on the person of interest’s identity or movements. Authorities are specifically asking for any surveillance video, photographs, or digital evidence from December 30, between 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., focusing on the wider area including Summit Street, North Grant Avenue, East 7th Avenue, and East 11th Avenue.
A Family’s Heartbreak and Enduring Quest for Justice
The Ohio police investigation into the Tepe murders carries a heavy emotional weight. Spencer and Monique were remembered by loved ones as extraordinary people whose lives were centered on service, family, and community. Rob Misleh, Spencer Tepe’s brother-in-law, articulated the family’s profound grief, describing the loss as “nearly incomprehensible” and emphasizing how it has “permanently altered their family.” He poignantly noted that the perpetrators “didn’t just take two lives” but also a son, daughter, brother, sister, aunt, and uncle.
The family has released heartfelt statements, expressing their devastation over the “tragic and senseless loss.” They remain steadfast in their commitment to seeing this tragedy “fully and fairly brought to justice” and to “honoring Spencer and Monique by protecting the future of the children they loved so deeply.” A GoFundMe campaign established to support the children has already raised over $140,000, a testament to the community’s outpouring of support. A growing memorial of flowers and personal items outside their N. 4th Street home further reflects widespread sorrow. The family prioritizes a thorough investigation, stating, “We’d rather have the investigation done right instead of fast.”
The complex nature of this unsolved Columbus murder highlights the dedication required from investigators. Without a clear motive, signs of forced entry, or a recovered weapon, every tip and piece of evidence becomes crucial. The police are continuing to process information, urging anyone with even the slightest detail to come forward and help bring closure to the Tepe family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key details of the Tepe murders in Columbus, Ohio?
Spencer Tepe, 37, a dentist, and his wife, Monique Tepe, 39, were found fatally shot in their Columbus home on December 30, 2025. Investigators believe the double homicide occurred between 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. that day. Two young children, aged 1 and 4, were found unharmed inside the residence. Police ruled out murder-suicide and found no signs of forced entry or a weapon at the scene, though three 9mm shell casings were recovered. The case is an active and ongoing criminal investigation.
How can the public assist police in the Spencer and Monique Tepe homicide investigation?
The Columbus Division of Police has issued a public appeal for assistance. They are asking anyone who recognizes the “person of interest” seen in the released surveillance video, or who has any information regarding the Tepe murders, to contact authorities. Specifically, they are requesting any surveillance video, photographs, or digital evidence from 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. on December 30, 2025, within the area surrounding the Tepe home (including Summit Street, North Grant Avenue, East 7th Avenue, and East 11th Avenue). Tips can be called in to 614-645-2228 or submitted anonymously to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477.
What makes the Tepe double homicide case particularly challenging for investigators?
Several factors contribute to the complexity of the Tepe double homicide. The absence of forced entry suggests potential familiarity between the victims and the perpetrator(s), or a non-violent entry method. The fact that no murder weapon was found at the scene indicates it was removed, hindering immediate forensic identification. Furthermore, while surveillance footage of a person of interest has been released, the individual’s face is obscured, making direct identification difficult. As of now, authorities have also not publicly identified a possible motive, adding another layer of challenge to the ongoing Ohio police investigation.
Standing United for Justice
The tragic loss of Spencer and Monique Tepe has deeply impacted the Columbus community. As the Ohio police investigation continues, the release of the person of interest video represents a critical turning point. Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be the key to unlocking answers and bringing justice to the Tepe family. The strength of the community, coupled with diligent police work, remains the best hope for solving this devastating Columbus double homicide and providing closure for the children and loved ones left behind.
If you have any information, please do not hesitate to contact the Columbus Division of Police or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers immediately.
