Authorities have shared unsettling surveillance footage of a potential suspect in the unresolved murder case involving an Ohio dentist and his wife, who were killed in their home.
The Columbus Police Department released the footage on Monday. It shows an individual walking slowly down a snowy alley close to the residence of Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife Monique Tepe, 39. This person appears to be dressed in light-colored pants and a dark hooded jacket, moving quietly with their head down and hands in pockets.
Investigators believe that the couple was murdered sometime between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on December 30th, in the upper level of their North Fourth Street home. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the individual in the alley during critical times.
Police have been actively soliciting information from neighbors and anyone who might have relevant video footage. They’ve noted receiving numerous tips from the community, which are currently being investigated.
Spencer and Monique were discovered dead at their Athens dental clinic after colleagues grew concerned over Spencer’s absence from work. When police first made a welfare check, no one answered the door, prompting the officers to leave. However, they returned after friends expressed worries about children being inside the house, leading to the discovery of Spencer’s body.
The couple’s young children, a 1-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl, were found unharmed and have since been placed under relative care. Initial reports stated that Spencer suffered multiple gunshot wounds, while Monique was shot at least once in the chest. Investigators have ruled out the possibility of a murder-suicide, as there was no forced entry and no weapon found at the scene.
Both Spencer and Monique, who were married for five years, are remembered fondly by their family as loving parents. A GoFundMe page set up to support their children has raised over $146,000 amidst the ongoing investigation.
