Apparent Causes of Death Revealed for Dentist, Wife Found Slain at Home with Crying Children Inside

Authorities in Ohio have shared preliminary details about the deaths of a Columbus couple found slain in their home last week, though the official coroner’s report has not yet been finalized.

Spencer Tepe and his wife, Monique Tepe, were discovered dead in their home on Dec. 30 after police responded to requests for welfare checks. According to the Franklin County Forensic Science Center, the apparent cause of death for both victims was gunshot wounds.

Police records indicate that Spencer, 37, and Monique, 39, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their deaths are being investigated as homicides.

A final determination of the official cause of death has not yet been released, as the coroner’s office is awaiting additional information, including toxicology results.

Investigators previously stated that Spencer suffered multiple gunshot wounds and that Monique was shot once in the chest, according to an earlier report cited by WSYX. The coroner’s office declined to independently confirm those details and referred inquiries to the Columbus Division of Police. Police officials have not responded to requests for comment.

The investigation began when one of Spencer’s coworkers contacted police after he failed to show up for work, an absence described as highly unusual. According to WSYX, the coworker also told authorities that repeated attempts to reach Spencer’s wife had been unsuccessful.

“We can’t get in touch with his wife, which is probably the more concerning thing,” Dr. Mark Valrose told police.

A friend who also went to the home to check on the couple later contacted emergency dispatchers, reporting that he could hear children crying inside.

“I can hear kids inside, and I think I heard one yell,” the caller said in dispatch audio. “But we can’t get in.”

Following the killings, the couple’s family released a statement describing Spencer and Monique as loving, kind people devoted to their family and community.

“They were extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others,” the statement read. “We are heartbroken beyond words and committed to seeing this tragedy fully and fairly brought to justice.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the couple’s two children.

Investigators have not yet identified a suspect or announced a person of interest in the case.