Shadows in Columbus: The Tepee Tragedy

Prologue: A City Disturbed

Columbus, Ohio is a city built on hope, community, and the quiet routines of everyday life. But in the early hours of December 30th, 2025, the city awoke to a tragedy that would shake its foundation—a double homicide that left two beloved parents dead, two young children orphaned, and a community desperate for answers.

This is the story of Spencer and Monnique Tepee, their lives, their loss, and the relentless search for truth in the heart of Ohio.

Chapter 1: The First Call

It started with a simple phone call.

On December 30th, at 9:00 a.m., Spencer Tepee’s boss dialed Columbus Police from Florida. Spencer, a dentist known for his reliability, had not shown up for work. The concern in his boss’s voice was palpable. Spencer was never late, never absent without notice. Something was wrong.

The dispatcher listened, assured the caller that sometimes people got sick or overslept, but the boss insisted. This was not Spencer’s pattern. “He is always on time and he would contact us if there was any issue whatsoever. We’re very, very concerned.”

The urgency prompted a wellness check. An officer arrived at Spencer and Monnique’s home at 9:22 a.m., knocked on the door, found no answer, and left. Unbeknownst to him, the tragedy had already occurred.

Chapter 2: A Gruesome Discovery

Concerned friends, alarmed by the lack of response, went to the Tepee home around 10:00 a.m. They could hear the children inside—crying, calling out. The front and back doors were locked. Should they break in? The debate was short-lived.

Five minutes later, a friend peered inside and saw something horrifying. Spencer’s body lay on the floor near the bed, unmoving, blood visible. The friend dialed 911, his voice trembling. “There’s a body. There’s a body inside.”

Police and medics arrived. Inside, they found both Spencer and Monnique dead from gunshot wounds. The couple’s two children, ages four and one, were unharmed but traumatized. Their golden doodle dog was also found safe.

The news spread quickly. Columbus was shaken to its core.

Chapter 3: The Victims

Spencer Tepee was more than just a dentist. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a friend to many. He grew up in Cincinnati, loved sports—especially the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals—and enjoyed golf, travel, and family time. He graduated from Ohio State in 2017 with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and commuted 75 miles to Athens for work, a testament to his dedication.

Monnique “Mo” Tepee was equally admired. She was a graduate of Ohio State with a background in early childhood education. Known for her kindness, infectious laugh, and talent for baking, she was the heart of her family and social circles. Her friends described her as “the life of the party,” and her marriage to Spencer was a source of joy for all who knew them.

They married in January 2021, settled into a newly built townhouse in Columbus, and built a life full of love, friendship, and community.

Chapter 4: The Mystery Begins

As investigators combed the scene, questions mounted. There was no sign of forced entry. The murder weapon was missing. Police found three 9mm shell casings—critical evidence, but not enough to solve the case.

Was this a targeted attack? A burglary gone wrong? Or something more personal?

The children’s safety and the lack of violence toward the dog suggested the killer knew the family—or at least had a specific intent. The community was left to wonder: who would do this, and why?

Chapter 5: The April 911 Call

Months before the murders, on April 15th at 2:45 a.m., a 911 call came from near the Tepee home. The caller was a distraught woman, emotional but insistent that she was okay. “I’m just emotional,” she told the dispatcher. “My man and I got into it, but I’m okay. I promise.”

Police canceled the response after confirming there was no physical altercation. The voice was not Monnique’s, and the call may not have originated from the Tepee residence—cell towers in dense neighborhoods can route calls from a wide radius.

Family members later explained that the Tepees often hosted gatherings. Friends recalled a party where a guest, overwhelmed, called 911 after drinking and taking an edible. It was a lapse, not a precursor to violence.

But the call added another layer of complexity to an already baffling case.

Chapter 6: The Person of Interest

Police released grainy surveillance footage from a Nest camera behind the Tepee townhouse. The video showed a man walking alone in the alley between 2 and 5 a.m. on December 30th—the window when the murders likely occurred. The temperature was in the 20s. The man’s face was hidden, his walk distinct.

Was this the killer? Or just someone passing through?

Detectives urged anyone with video from the area to come forward. The public watched and rewatched the footage, analyzing mannerisms, clothing, and posture. Some thought the man looked suspicious, others believed he could have been drunk and heading home from a bar.

But as days passed, no one identified themselves. The mystery deepened.

Chapter 7: The Investigation Intensifies

Retired NYPD detective Tom Smith joined the case as a commentator, lending his expertise to Law and Crime’s coverage. He noted the importance of the alleyway, the knowledge of the area, and the person’s efforts to avoid cameras.

“Manurisms can tell an enormous story,” Smith explained. “You don’t always need a face when it comes to these videos. The way someone walks, the arm swing, the head tilt—those are actions you do involuntarily.”

He also highlighted the significance of the shell casings. “They could have extensive DNA evidence. And the rounds, if recovered, could match the grooves and turns in a weapon. That’s enormous.”

Smith’s gut instinct? “It seems too neat, too personal. No harm to the children or the dog. I think it’s someone they knew.”

Chapter 8: The Search for Motive

Detectives interviewed friends, family, and colleagues. They tracked down party guests, reviewed social media, and analyzed financial records. Was there a conflict? Jealousy? An unresolved grudge?

Monnique’s past was scrutinized. She had been married before, but the divorce was amicable. Spencer had no known enemies. The couple’s life appeared idyllic.

Yet, someone had targeted them in the dead of night.

Chapter 9: Community Response

Columbus rallied around the surviving children. Family members took them in, providing stability and comfort. Therapists and counselors worked with them, helping to process trauma and grief.

Neighbors organized vigils, fundraisers, and support groups. The Tepee home became a memorial, adorned with flowers, candles, and messages of hope.

The tragedy sparked conversations about safety, mental health, and the importance of community. The city was united in its determination to find justice.

Chapter 10: The Pressure Builds

The Columbus Police Department faced mounting pressure. Every media outlet wanted answers. The public demanded updates. Detectives worked around the clock, running down every conceivable lead.

Anonymous tips poured in. Surveillance footage was reviewed, enhanced, and cross-referenced. Interviews multiplied. The investigation was relentless, but real life was not a television show—progress took time.

Detectives took the case personally. It happened on their watch, in their backyard.

Chapter 11: Theories and Speculation

Online forums buzzed with theories. Was it a burglary? A random act? Or a carefully planned, targeted killing?

The lack of forced entry pointed to someone with access—a friend, family member, or someone who knew the passcode. The possibility of a party guest with a grudge was considered. Old school detective work tracked down attendees, mapped relationships, and searched for conflicts.

Every detail mattered. The smallest clue could break the case.

Chapter 12: The Role of Technology

Technology was both a blessing and a curse. Doorbell cameras, security systems, and cell phone records provided evidence, but also raised privacy concerns.

A local tech startup volunteered to help police sift through hours of video. Community members shared footage from their homes and cars. The collaboration was unprecedented.

Police held back information, protecting the integrity of the investigation. They may have had good leads, but were not ready to share them publicly.

Chapter 13: The Family’s Voice

Rob Mistla, Monnique’s brother-in-law, became the family’s spokesperson. He gave interviews, clarified rumors, and shared memories of Spencer and Monnique.

He explained the context of the April 911 call, emphasizing that it was not Monnique’s voice and was likely the result of a guest’s mental health episode. He urged the public to focus on the facts, not speculation.

Rob’s commitment to the children was unwavering. He created memory books, encouraged open conversation, and made sure they felt loved and supported.

Chapter 14: The Legacy

Spencer and Monnique’s legacy endured. Athens Dental Depot established a scholarship in Spencer’s name. Monnique’s favorite charity received a surge of donations.

The children, surrounded by love, began to heal. Their parents’ stories became a source of strength, guiding them through difficult times.

The case remained open, but the family found ways to move forward, honoring Spencer and Monnique’s memory.

Chapter 15: The Unending Mystery

Months passed, but the mystery persisted. The person of interest in the alley was never identified. The killer’s motive remained elusive.

Detectives refused to give up. New leads were pursued. Old evidence was re-examined. The community held onto hope.

The children grew, supported by family and friends. Their resilience became a symbol of the city’s strength.

Epilogue: The Search for Justice

The memorial outside the Tepee home stands as a symbol of remembrance and hope. Flowers are replaced, candles are lit, and messages of love adorn the steps.

The investigation continues. Police are determined to bring the killer to justice. The community remains vigilant, united in the face of tragedy.

Spencer and Monnique’s story is far from over. As new information emerges and the search for answers persists, their memory will continue to inspire those who knew them and those who hear their story.

Chapter 16: The Ripple Effects

The Tepee tragedy did not fade quietly. In the weeks that followed, Columbus was transformed. The media spotlight remained fixed on the city, amplifying every rumor and every new detail. For neighbors in the Weinland Park community, daily life was shadowed by anxiety and curiosity. Parents reminded their children not to open doors to strangers. Block associations formed ad-hoc watch groups, and social media became a place for both support and speculation.

Local businesses felt the loss. At Athens Dental Depot, Spencer’s absence was a daily ache. His colleagues left his office untouched, a silent tribute to their friend. Patients wrote letters and cards, sharing memories of kindness and professionalism. Monnique’s friends in the education community organized bake sales and memorial events, raising funds for the children and sharing stories of her warmth.

The mayor’s office responded with calls for unity and resilience. “We must not let fear divide us,” the mayor said at a candlelight vigil. “We honor Spencer and Monnique by caring for each other and standing together.”

Chapter 17: The Children’s Journey

For the Tepee children, the world changed overnight. Their routines were upended, their sense of safety shattered. Family members stepped in, determined to provide stability. Therapy sessions became part of their lives, helping them process grief and trauma. Friends and neighbors brought meals, toys, and words of encouragement.

Rob Mistla, now guardian, became a pillar of strength. He created memory books, filled with photos and stories, to help the children remember their parents. He encouraged them to talk about their feelings and to ask questions, no matter how difficult.

“We will never forget them,” Rob told the children one night, as they gathered around the kitchen table. “And we will always be a family.”

Chapter 18: The Legal Process Unfolds

With the investigation ongoing, the legal process began to take shape. Prosecutors prepared arguments, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Defense attorneys worked to understand the charges and build their own narrative.

Court dates were set, and the community braced for the intense media scrutiny that would accompany any arrest or trial. Advocacy groups offered support to the Tepee family, ensuring that the children’s needs were met and their privacy respected.

For many, the legal process was a chance for closure. For others, it was a painful reminder of violence and loss.

Chapter 19: The Search for Answers

Detectives continued to dig deeper, searching for a clear motive. They reviewed every aspect of Spencer and Monnique’s lives, from professional pressures to personal relationships. Was there evidence of obsession or jealousy? Did someone harbor resentment toward the couple? Or was there another reason behind the crime?

Financial records were scrutinized, but no significant irregularities were found. Interviews with friends and colleagues painted a picture of a couple who struggled only with the everyday challenges of parenthood and work.

The investigation also explored the possibility of outside involvement. Could someone else have played a role? Was there a connection to other incidents in the neighborhood, such as the mysterious 911 calls or reports of suspicious activity?

Detectives left no stone unturned, determined to bring clarity to a case that had left so many questions unanswered.

Chapter 20: Technology and Community

Technology continued to play a pivotal role. Police worked with tech companies to recover deleted footage, enhance grainy videos, and triangulate cell phone signals. Community members responded by sharing footage from doorbell cameras, security systems, and even dash cams.

A local tech startup offered their expertise, volunteering to help police sift through hours of video for clues. The collaboration between law enforcement and the public was unprecedented, a testament to the city’s determination to find justice.

Neighborhood watch groups grew in number, and residents organized safety seminars and self-defense classes. The tragedy sparked a movement toward greater awareness and mutual support.

Chapter 21: Healing and Hope

As the months passed, Columbus began to heal. The memorial outside the Tepee home became a place of reflection and remembrance, visited by friends, family, and strangers alike. Flowers were replaced, candles relit, and messages of hope left for the children.

Schools and churches offered additional counseling and support. Community leaders launched initiatives to address domestic violence, mental health, and family support. The legacy of Spencer and Monnique inspired action, turning grief into purpose.

The Tepee children, surrounded by love, began to smile again. They played in the backyard, attended school, and celebrated birthdays with family and friends. The pain of loss remained, but the promise of a future filled with hope grew stronger each day.

Chapter 22: Reflections and Lessons

The story of Spencer and Monnique Tepee became a lesson in compassion, vigilance, and resilience. Their lives touched countless others, and their deaths prompted a city—and a nation—to reflect on what truly matters.

Neighbors reached out to those in need, offering help and friendship. The sense of community grew stronger, forged in the crucible of loss.

Local leaders used the case as a catalyst for change. New initiatives were launched to improve public safety, support victims of crime, and strengthen community bonds. The tragedy inspired action, turning grief into purpose.

Chapter 23: The Legacy

Despite the tragedy, Spencer and Monnique’s legacy endured. The community continued to honor their memory, organizing events and fundraisers in their name. The Athens Dental Depot established a scholarship for dental students, dedicated to Spencer’s commitment to education and service.

Monnique’s favorite charity, a local shelter for women and children, received a surge of donations. Volunteers continued her work, inspired by her compassion and generosity.

The Tepee children grew, surrounded by love and support. Their parents’ stories became a source of strength, guiding them through difficult times.

The case remained open, but the family found ways to heal. They focused on the future, cherishing the memories of Spencer and Monnique while building new traditions.

Chapter 24: The Unending Mystery

Years passed, but the mystery of the Tepee murders remained unsolved. The shadowy figure in the surveillance video was never identified, and the killer’s motive was never discovered.

Detective Martinez retired, but she continued to follow the case, hoping for a breakthrough. New detectives took up the investigation, reviewing old evidence and searching for new leads.

The family continued to hope for justice, but found peace in knowing they had done everything possible to honor Spencer and Monnique’s memory.

The children, now older, carried their parents’ legacy with pride. They spoke at community events, sharing their story and encouraging others to cherish their loved ones.

Chapter 25: The Power of Community

In the end, the story of Spencer and Monnique Tepee is not just about loss. It is about the power of community, the strength of family, and the enduring impact of love.

Their deaths brought a city together, inspiring acts of kindness and compassion. Their memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew them, and in the lives of their children.

The Columbus double homicide remains a mystery, but it is also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The community’s response, the family’s resolve, and the ongoing search for justice are reminders that even in the darkest times, hope endures.

Epilogue: Justice and Remembrance

Today, the memorial outside the Tepee home stands as a symbol of remembrance and hope. Flowers are replaced, candles are lit, and the soccer ball remains—a tribute to childhood innocence and the love that endures.

The investigation continues, with police determined to bring the killer to justice. The community remains vigilant, united in the face of tragedy.

Spencer and Monnique’s story is far from over. As new information emerges and the search for answers persists, their memory will continue to inspire those who knew them and those who hear their story.

In the end, the Columbus double homicide is more than a crime—it is a testament to the power of community, the strength of family, and the enduring impact of love.