Additional Coverage:
- Police seek suspect after dentist and wife found shot dead at home while 2 young children are unharmed (foxnews.com)
Columbus Couple Found Deceased in Home, Police Investigate
Columbus, OH – Authorities are actively investigating the deaths of a local dentist, Dr. Spencer Tepe, and his wife, Monique Tepe, who were discovered shot to death inside their Columbus residence on Tuesday. The tragic discovery comes just weeks before the couple was set to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary.
Police responded to the Tepe home around 10 a.m. for a wellness check after Dr. Tepe failed to report for work at Athens Dental Depot.
The call was placed by Dr. Mark Valrose, the owner of the dental practice, who expressed growing concern over Spencer’s uncharacteristic absence and inability to reach either Spencer or Monique.
Upon arrival, officers located Spencer and Monique Tepe deceased with apparent gunshot wounds. Two young children were found inside the home unharmed.
Initial reports from law enforcement, as shared with local affiliate WSYX, suggest that investigators do not believe the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide. Officials noted that no firearm was recovered at the scene, and there were no signs of forced entry into the home.
The initial wellness check by a Columbus Police Department officer at 9:22 a.m. yielded no answer at the door. However, a subsequent 911 call from a friend of Spencer Tepe, who had gone to the residence, reported finding a body. The caller described finding Spencer Tepe “laying next to his bed, off of his bed in his blood,” and stated, “I can tell he’s obviously not breathing or anything.”
Athens Dental Depot released a statement on Facebook expressing profound sadness over the loss. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of our dear colleague and friend, Dr.
Spencer Tepe, as well as his wife Monique. He will be deeply missed by our team and the many patients he cared for over the years.
Our thoughts and sincerest condolences are with their families and loved ones during this very difficult time,” the statement read.
Spencer’s brother-in-law, Rob Misleh, confirmed to WSYX that the couple, who married in 2021, was looking forward to their five-year anniversary next month.
Police are urging anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward as they continue their search for a suspect.