A dentist and his wife were shot to death on Columbus, Ohio’s Near East Side, and police are looking for a suspect and asking for the public’s help.
According to a statement from the Columbus Police Department, officers were dispatched to conduct a welfare check just after 10 a.m. on Dec. 30. When they arrived, they found two adults – Spencer Tepe and Monique Tepe – both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, police said.
Investigators said no weapons were found at the scene and there were no signs of forced entry. Two children, a 1-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl, were found inside the home and were not injured.
Spencer Tepe failed to show up for work at a dental clinic in Athens and couldn’t be reached, so co-workers called 911, CBS affiliate WBNS reported.
Spencer and Monique Tepe/Photo credit: Rob Misleh
Investigators are currently looking for video, photos or other digital evidence that may show a suspicious person or vehicle in the area during the shooting.
They are particularly interested in footage from surrounding neighborhoods between midnight and 9am on December 30. The area of ​​interest is bounded by Summit Street to the east, North Grant Avenue to the west, East Seventh Avenue to the south, and East Eleventh Avenue to the north.
Police said information can be provided anonymously.
In a statement released by the family, loved ones of Spencer and Monique Tepe described them as devoted parents and partners who lived lives centered on service, family and community.
“We are heartbroken beyond words,” the statement said. “While no outcome can undo this loss, our family is committed to bringing this tragedy to full and fair justice and to honoring Spencer and Monique by protecting the future of their beloved children.”
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