New Surveillance Footage Reveals Person of Interest in Ohio Dentist's Double Murder as Police Probe Chilling Details

A welfare check at a quiet home in Columbus has turned into a double homicide investigation that has stunned a city and shattered a family. Now, as 2026 begins, newly released surveillance footage is offering police a glimmer of hope.

On the Tuesday morning of December 30, 2025, Spencer and Monique Tepe were found dead inside their Weinland Park home. Their deaths left behind two young children and a devastated community. And with no signs of forced entry and no weapon at the scene, police were left with a mystery. Until now.

The Tragic Discovery

Spencer Tepe, 37, a respected dentist at Athens Dental Depot, failed to show up for work that Tuesday. His absence immediately alarmed colleagues and his employer, Dr. Mark Valrose, who said Spencer was always on time and would have called if something were wrong.

At approximately 9:03 a.m., Dr. Valrose reportedly called 911, telling dispatchers that no one could reach Spencer or his wife, Monique, 39.

A police officer arrived at the 1400 block of North 4th Street around 9:22 a.m., but no one answered the door. As concern grew, several of Spencer's coworkers arrived at the house to check for themselves. Still, no answer.

But then came another 911 call, as they heard something that changed everything: the sound of children crying from inside.

A Friend's Worst Nightmare

The friend's 911 call at 9:57 a.m. was soon followed by another as just minutes later he had made a horrifying discovery: Spencer's body near a bed.

The friend told the 911 operator that there was a body in the home and that Spencer appeared to be dead.

When other officers arrived, they entered the property and confirmed that both Spencer and Monique were dead. Their two young children had been left unharmed.

What Happened to the Tepes?

There was no forced entry and no weapon. But it was clear from the start that the couple had been killed.

Both were pronounced dead at the scene from gunshot wounds, and officials quickly ruled out the possibility of a murder-suicide. The Tepes had been married in that very home in 2021 and were just one month away from celebrating their fifth anniversary.

According to records released on December 31, Spencer had been shot several times, while Monique had been shot at least once in the chest. These details were later confirmed by the Office of Coroner Nathaniel R. Overmire at the Franklin County Forensic Science Center.

The official cause of death has not been made public, pending further examination, including toxicology reports. But investigators made it clear: this was being treated as a double homicide.

But there was a problem. At the time, there were no suspects and no solid leads.

The New Footage

On January 5, 2026, a lead was found.

The Columbus Division of Police released surveillance footage showing a potential person of interest. Investigators believe the couple was murdered between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on December 30.

The clip captures a man walking through a snow-covered alley near the Tepes' home during that timeframe. He is wearing a dark hoodie and white pants, with his back hunched slightly, and his hands tucked inside the front pocket of his hoodie, which appeared bulky.

He walks at a normal pace. Not rushing. Just passing through the residential area, possibly from the cold. The video unfortunately does not show him entering any home.

But the police division hoped that the community could help, as they had already received several tips, which authorities were taking seriously.

Anyone who recognizes the man or has information is encouraged to scan the QR code provided in the footage or call 614-645-2228. Central Ohio Crime Stoppers can also be reached anonymously at 614-461-8477.

A Couple Mourned

Dr. Valrose shared his sorrow publicly, expressing heartbreak over the loss of Spencer and Monique and thanking the community for its support.

Before joining Athens Dental Depot, Spencer had worked at Stonecreek Dental Care in Ashland. He held a bachelor's degree in biology, another in Spanish, and earned his doctorate in dental surgery from Ohio State University.

His family remembered him as a devoted Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals fan, raised in the area and a graduate of Mason Public Schools.

Monique was known for her baking skills, her love for her children, and her deep commitment as a partner. She trained in education and had also attended Ohio State University.

This was her second marriage, having previously been married to another Ohio State alum until their amicable, childless divorce in 2017.

Now, two kids are left without parents. And a city waits for justice. We offer our condolences to all their family and loved ones after this tragedy.