A manhunt is currently in progress for the gunman responsible for the tragic shooting of a dentist and his wife in Columbus, Ohio, just weeks shy of their fifth wedding anniversary.
Columbus Police, responding to a welfare check early Tuesday morning, discovered Spencer and Monique Tepe dead from gunshot wounds. Reports suggest Spencer had been shot multiple times, while Monique suffered at least one gunshot wound to the chest. Fortunately, their two young children were found unharmed at the scene.
Authorities do not suspect that the incident was a murder-suicide, noting that no firearms were found at the location and there were no signs of forced entry.
Here’s a brief timeline regarding the events surrounding the shootings of Spencer and Monique Tepe:
2 a.m. to 5 a.m.: Police seek video footage.
The Columbus Police are asking neighbors and any witnesses to provide video from the timeframe around 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. near the Tepe residence.
9:03 a.m.: Initial 911 call made.
The first call to 911 came from Mark Valrose, the owner of Athens Dental Depot where Spencer worked. Concerned by his absence, Valrose requested authorities to check on him, stating, “Spencer always shows up on time, so we’re really concerned.”
9:22 a.m.: Police arrive at the Tepe household.
Following the call, officers knocked on both the front and back doors of the home but received no answer.
9:57 a.m.: A friend hears a child’s voice.
A friend of Spencer called 911, reporting that he thought he heard voices from inside the house and possibly a child crying.
10:04 a.m.: Another friend reports seeing a body.
Yet another call to 911 revealed that someone claimed to have seen what appeared to be a body inside the Tepe home. The caller described the scene as unsettling, noting the visible blood but could not approach further.
10:13 a.m.: Discovery of shell casings.
Shell casings were later found at the site. In a statement, the family expressed profound heartbreak over the couple’s “tragic and senseless” deaths, highlighting their loving nature and deep connections with others.
Spencer was remembered as an engaged father and friend, known for his warmth and kindness. He was also involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
Family members characterized Monique as a patient and fun mother, reflecting on her warmth and nurturing spirit. Rob Misley, Spencer’s brother-in-law, shared that they had been married in 2021 and were about to celebrate their fifth anniversary.
