Ohio Dentist and Wife Found Dead at Home in Apparent Tragedy
A devastating incident unfolded in Columbus, Ohio, late last month when a well‑respected local dentist and his wife were discovered shot to death inside their home, leaving their young children traumatized but physically unharmed.
The couple, 37‑year‑old dentist Spencer Tepe and his 39‑year‑old wife Monique, were found deceased on December 30, 2025, at their residence in the Near East Side neighborhood of Columbus after concerned colleagues noticed unusual silence and raised the alarm. Authorities have since classified the deaths as a double homicide, and the case remains under active investigation.
Discovery and Emergency Response
The sequence of events began early in the morning when dental staff grew worried after Spencer, known for being punctual and reliable, failed to show up at work and could not be reached by phone. A welfare check was requested, and multiple 911 calls were made by coworkers and friends who were unable to contact the couple and later heard the sounds of children crying inside the house.
Police responded to the home and found both Spencer and Monique with apparent gunshot wounds, prompting investigators to immediately begin a homicide probe. Despite the violent scene, there were no obvious signs of forced entry, and no weapon was found at the location.
Children Found Safe
Inside the home at the time were the couple’s two young children, now believed to be around one and four years old. Although they were physically unharmed, dispatch and eyewitness reports noted that the children were found distressed and crying — a harrowing detail that has deeply affected the community.
Emergency responders ensured the children’s safety and they are now in the care of family members while authorities continue their work. The family and close friends have expressed deep sorrow over the traumatic experience the children endured and are rallying around them for support and stability.
Investigation and Person of Interest
Law enforcement has released surveillance footage showing a person of interest near the couple’s home during the early morning hours believed to coincide with the killings — between approximately 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. The individual, dressed in a hooded sweatshirt and lighter pants, was captured walking in an alleyway near the residence. Investigators are urging anyone with information or additional footage to come forward to assist in identifying the individual.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and no suspect has been publicly identified. The motive for the killings remains unclear, and police have emphasized that the case is being treated as a double homicide rather than a murder‑suicide.
Community Reaction and Support Efforts
The tragic loss of Spencer and Monique has deeply impacted friends, co‑workers, and neighbors. Loved ones describe the couple as warm, generous, and devoted parents who were well liked in their community. In response to the tragedy, family members and community supporters have organized fundraising efforts to provide financial assistance and long‑term care for the couple’s children during this difficult period.
Messages of condolence and support have poured in from around the region, with many expressing disbelief that such a violent act could happen in a family’s home where two innocent children were present. The situation has galvanized calls for information that could help solve the case.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to follow leads, review evidence, and pursue tips from the public. The Columbus Police Department has asked anyone with video footage, photos, or relevant information from the neighborhood early on December 30 to contact investigators. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through crime stoppers units.
The community remains hopeful that the investigation will yield answers and justice for Spencer, Monique, and their children.
