Columbus police are investigating the fatal shooting of a dentist and his wife, leaving their two children safe. Authorities have ruled out murder-suicide and are treating the case as a homicide, with no suspects named.
The bodies of Spencer and Monique Tepe were discovered Tuesday morning inside their Columbus home, following multiple calls from concerned friends, co-workers, and neighbors who reported the couple had not been seen or heard from. The two young children, who were in a separate room, remained unharmed.
The Tepe family described the couple as “extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others.” In a statement to NBC News, they highlighted Spencer’s devotion to his children and his pride in his profession, as well as Monique’s warmth and passion for baking and childhood education.
Police received at least four calls beginning around 9 a.m. on Dec. 30. The first came from Dr. Mark Valrose, owner of Athens Dental Depot, who reported Spencer was never late for work and always checked in before missing a day. An hour later, an unidentified male caller reported hearing children inside the home but was unable to enter. At 10 a.m., a friend of Spencer’s reported seeing a body inside and breaking down in sobs, describing blood on the floor and the body lying off a bed.
Three 9-millimeter casings were found inside the home, according to the police report. Columbus police have ruled out a murder-suicide and are treating the case as a homicide. No suspects have been named, and officials have stated no additional updates will be provided as of Friday.
Spencer and Monique had married inside the home where they were killed, family said, and were a month shy of celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary. Spencer was a fluent Spanish speaker and practiced at Athens Dental Depot, where he was deeply respected by colleagues and patients. Monique, who had a background in childhood education, was known for her kindness and joyful spirit.
The case has drawn national attention, with social media posts from Valrose and others expressing grief and solidarity. The couple’s lives, filled with love and community, have become a focal point for a city grappling with the sudden loss of two cherished individuals.
As investigators continue to piece together the events of that fateful morning, the community has come together to honor Spencer and Monique’s memory. Their children, now orphans, are being supported by family and friends, while the Tepe family continues to grieve the loss of their pillars.
For readers seeking more authoritative reporting on this developing story, the official Columbus Police Department statement and NBC News coverage provide the most up-to-date information. The case remains under active investigation, and the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
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