Ohio Dentist’s 4-Year-Old Daughter Says Goodbye to Parents as Family Shares Emotional Tribute
In the wake of a horrific double homicide in Columbus, Ohio, relatives say the 4-year-old daughter of Spencer and Monique Tepe is exhibiting early signs of her parents’ personality and spirit even after they were fatally shot in their home late last month. Police found the couple dead inside their residence on December 30, 2025, with their two young children — a daughter, 4, and a son, 1 — unharmed nearby.
According to family members, the older child has moments when her energy and curiosity reflect her parents’ character, and relatives describe her as a “ball of energy” with traits they associate with them. “You totally see them kind of shine through her,” a cousin said, referring to how her personality sometimes shifts from playful to suddenly somber in a way that resonates with memories of her mom and dad.
The younger sibling, likely too young to understand the tragedy, was probably in his crib during the attack, relatives believe. Since the deaths, both children have been cared for by extended family members who are navigating how to support the girl as she begins to process her loss.
A friend of the Tepe family who called 911 on the morning the couple was found reported hearing crying inside the home and later discovered the children safe but distressed. Investigators believe the couple was shot between the early hours of 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., though the precise motive remains under investigation.
Police have charged Monique’s ex-husband, Michael David McKee, in connection with the killings. Authorities have described the incident as related to domestic violence, though McKee’s lawyer has indicated he plans to plead not guilty to aggravated murder charges.
The family is focused not only on caring for the children but also on finding the right way to explain the sudden absence of their parents, with relatives saying they will encourage the daughter to talk about her feelings as she grows and adjusts. A GoFundMe campaign has also been established to support the children’s future needs.
