Michael McKee Pleads Not Guilty in Killings of Spencer and Monique Tepe in Ohio Double Murder Case
Michael McKee, an Illinois vascular surgeon, pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and burglary charges in the fatal shootings of his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her husband in Columbus, Ohio.
Michael McKee Pleads Not Guilty in Killings of Spencer and Monique Tepe in Ohio Double Murder Case
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Michael McKee, a 39-year-old vascular surgeon from Illinois, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary in connection with the fatal shootings of his ex-wife, Monique Tepe, and her husband, Spencer Tepe, in Columbus, Ohio.
The plea was entered during a virtual arraignment on January 23, 2026, in Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. The charges stem from the December 30, 2025, killings at the couple’s home in the Weinland Park neighborhood, where both victims were found shot to death during a police welfare check. The Tepes’ two young children were inside the residence at the time and were unharmed.
Spencer and Monique Tepe Found Dead in Weinland Park Home
Columbus police responded to the Weinland Park residence at approximately 9:40 a.m. on December 30, 2025, after receiving concerns about the couple’s welfare. Investigators determined that Spencer Tepe, 37, and Monique Tepe, 39, had been fatally shot several hours earlier, with the suspected time of death estimated around 3:50 a.m.
Spencer Tepe was a well-known dentist in the Columbus area. Monique Tepe had previously been married to McKee from 2015 until their divorce in 2017.
Alleged History of Abuse and Stalking by Michael McKee
According to unsealed court affidavits, prosecutors allege Michael McKee engaged in a sustained pattern of abuse, threats, and stalking toward Monique Tepe during and after their marriage. Friends and relatives told investigators that Monique described incidents of physical violence, coercive control, and explicit threats.
Witnesses reported that McKee allegedly claimed he could “kill her at any time,” insisted she would “always be his wife,” and made repeated statements suggesting he would track her movements. Prosecutors argue these alleged behaviors support a narrative of premeditation.
Surveillance, Phone Records, and Ballistics Evidence
Investigators say surveillance footage from December 6, 2025, shows McKee on the Tepes’ property for several hours while Spencer and Monique Tepe were attending the Big Ten Championship football game in Indianapolis. Monique reportedly left the event early, distressed over an issue involving her ex-husband.
Cell phone data shows McKee’s phone remained inactive for approximately 17 hours from December 29 into December 30, 2025. Prosecutors allege the phone was intentionally left at his Illinois workplace to create a false alibi while he traveled to Columbus.
A silver SUV linked to McKee was captured by multiple cameras near the crime scene and later located in Illinois with altered identifying features and stolen license plates. Ballistics analysis has reportedly connected a firearm recovered from McKee’s Chicago residence to evidence found at the Tepes’ home.
Arrest, Charges, and Court Proceedings
McKee was arrested in Rockford, Illinois, on January 10, 2026, and extradited to Ohio on January 20. He was indicted on January 16 on four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary, each carrying firearm specifications that could substantially increase any sentence if convicted.
Defense attorney Diane Menashe entered not guilty pleas on McKee’s behalf and waived bond at this stage. Franklin County prosecutor Shayla Favor is handling the case, with additional forensic review underway.
Case Highlights Domestic Violence Risks
The killings of Spencer and Monique Tepe have drawn national attention due to the alleged domestic violence and stalking dynamics involved. Advocates note that the case reflects well-documented escalation patterns seen in intimate partner violence cases, particularly when threats continue long after a relationship has ended.
The case remains pending as pretrial proceedings continue.