At a Glance
- Ohio police are hunting the shooter who killed dentist Spencer Tepe and his wife Monique Tepe, leaving two children orphaned.
- Bodies found Tuesday morning after friends and co-workers called police on Dec 30.
- Three 9-millimeter casings recovered; Columbus police treating the case as a homicide.
- Why it matters: The tragedy shocks a tight-knit community and raises urgent questions about safety and response.
Ohio police are hunting the shooter who killed dentist Spencer Tepe and his wife Monique Tepe earlier this week, leaving their two young children orphaned and their loved ones shocked. The bodies were discovered Tuesday morning after friends and co-workers reported that Spencer had not shown up to work and Monique was unresponsive.
The Tragedy
On Dec 30, friends and colleagues called police after learning that Spencer had not arrived at the Athens Dental Depot and that Monique was not answering her phone. The first call came from the owner of the practice, who described Spencer as never late and always checking in. An hour later, an unidentified male 911 caller reported hearing children inside the house but could not enter.
At 10 a.m., Alex Ditty, a friend, reported seeing a body inside and then breaking down in tears. Police found the bodies of Spencer and Monique Tuesday morning, with Spencer lying next to his bed and Monique beside him. Three 9-millimeter casings were recovered inside the home, while the couple’s two children were safe in a different room.
Investigation Status
Columbus police have ruled out a murder-suicide and are treating the case as a homicide. Investigators have not named any suspects and have issued no further updates as of Friday. The couple had married in the house where they were killed and were a month shy of their fifth wedding anniversary.
- Family statement:
> “They were extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others.”
- Dr. Mark Valrose:
> “Spencer would be deeply missed by our team and the many patients he cared for over the years.”
- Monique’s background:
> “Monique was a loving, patient, and joyful mother whose warmth defined her.”
| Time | Caller | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 a.m. | Dental practice owner | Spencer never late, always checks in |
| 10:00 a.m. | Unidentified male | Heard children inside, cannot enter |
| 10:00 a.m. | Alex Ditty | Saw body, sobbing |
Key Takeaways
- Ohio police are actively searching for the shooter who killed the Tepe family.
- The case is being treated as a homicide with no suspects named.
- The tragedy leaves two children orphaned and the community in shock.
The investigation continues as authorities seek answers and justice for the Tepe family.
