Police in Columbus, Ohio, are actively searching for the perpetrator or perpetrators responsible for the brutal killings of a young dentist and his wife. The victims, identified as Dr Spencer Tepe, 37, and Monique Tepe, 39, were found dead in their upscale residence in the Weinland Park neighbourhood on Tuesday. Shockingly, their two young children, aged one and four, were present inside the home but were found physically unharmed.
A Chilling Discovery and a Desperate Search for Answers
The grim incident came to light after Spencer Tepe, known for his punctuality, failed to show up for work at the Athens Dental Depot, located about 75 miles southeast of his Columbus home. According to reports from CNN affiliate WSYX, his employer and colleagues grew increasingly concerned when they could not reach him or his wife, Monique.
Dr Mark Valrose, the owner of the dental practice, made the first 911 call at approximately 8:58 a.m. on Tuesday, requesting a welfare check. He expressed deep worry, stating that not hearing from the reliable dentist was "very out of character." An officer arrived at the home around 9:22 a.m. but received no answer.
The situation escalated when friends and colleagues who had gathered outside the home called 911 again at 9:56 a.m., reporting they could hear children crying inside. Minutes later, a friend who had peered into the home made a harrowing call to dispatchers, stating, "There's a body." Officers soon discovered the bodies of the couple inside.
Investigation Points to Double Homicide, Killer at Large
Columbus police have confirmed they are investigating the case as a double homicide, ruling out murder-suicide. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible, emphasizing that the killer or killers remain on the loose. Critical details about a possible suspect or motive have not been disclosed.
Adding to the mystery, law enforcement revealed there were no obvious signs of forced entry into the home, and no firearm was recovered from the scene. The Franklin County Coroner's Office indicated that autopsy reports, crucial for determining the exact cause of death, could take eight to ten weeks to complete.
A Community and Family in Mourning
As news of the tragedy spread just days after Christmas, a memorial of roses and sunflowers grew outside the Tepe family home. The family released a heart-wrenching statement, describing Spencer and Monique as a couple who "shared a beautiful, strong and deeply happy relationship." They were bonded by love, travel, and laughter, with a mission to build a life rooted in love.
"We are heartbroken beyond words," the family said, adding they are committed to seeking justice and protecting the future of the couple's two children, who are now in the care of relatives.
Spencer Tepe, an Ohio State University graduate and member of the American Dental Association, was remembered as a devoted father, loving partner, and a generous friend fluent in Spanish. Monique Tepe, with a background in childhood education, was described as a patient, joyful, and warm mother. Their dental practice announced its closure for the week, paying tribute to the couple's "sudden passing" on social media.
The investigation continues, with police reviewing evidence, including the potential footage from a crime camera situated on a utility pole near the home. The community and nation await answers in this shocking crime that has cut short two promising lives.
