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 an official coroner’s ruling has not yet been finalized.

Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife, Monique Tepe, 39, were discovered dead in their Columbus residence 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.

An incident report from the Columbus Division of Police states that Spencer and Monique were pronounced dead at the scene. Their deaths are being investigated as homicides.

The coroner’s office said a final determination on the cause of death is still pending additional findings, including toxicology results.

Police had previously indicated that Spencer suffered multiple gunshot wounds and that Monique was shot once in the chest, according to information cited by WSYX. The coroner’s office declined to confirm those specifics and referred inquiries to Columbus police.

Investigators with the Columbus Division of Police have not responded to requests for comment.

The case came to light after one of Spencer’s coworkers contacted authorities when he failed to report to work, something described as highly unusual. “We can’t get in touch with his wife, which is probably the more concerning thing,” Dr. Mark Valrose told police, according to prior reporting by WSYX.

A friend who also went to the home to check on the couple told 911 dispatchers that he could hear children crying inside the house. “I can hear kids inside, and I think I heard one yell,” the caller said in dispatch audio. “But we can’t get in.”

Family members later described Spencer and Monique as deeply kind and devoted to their family and community, saying they were focused on building a life “rooted in love.”

“They were extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others,” the family said in a statement shared by Spencer’s brother-in-law, Rob Misleh. “We are heartbroken beyond words,” the statement continued, adding that the family is committed to seeing justice served.

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

As of now, investigators have not announced a suspect or person of interest in the case.