Columbus, Ohio – Years after Monique Tepe and her husband, Spencer Tepe, were found fatally shot inside their Columbus home, a former spouse from Monique’s past has been arrested and charged in the case. Michael David McKee, a physician and surgeon, is now in custody in Illinois facing two counts of murder in connection with the couple’s deaths, according to court and law enforcement records first detailed by CNN.
Arrest Made Nearly Ten Years After Divorce
Authorities confirmed that Michael David McKee, 39, was taken into custody in Rockford, Illinois, without incident. He is scheduled to appear in court Monday afternoon in Winnebago County, according to the sheriff’s office. McKee was previously married to Monique Tepe, years before she wed Spencer Tepe.
Monique, 39, and Spencer, 37, were remembered Sunday during a joint celebration of life. Friends and family described the couple as sharing a strong and deeply happy relationship.
Discovery of the Killings
Concern was raised on the morning of December 30 when Spencer, a well-regarded dentist, failed to arrive at work. His colleagues contacted authorities, prompting a welfare check. Police later discovered both Monique and Spencer dead inside their home just north of downtown Columbus.
The couple’s two young children, ages 4 and 1, were found inside the home unharmed, according to police.
Background on McKee’s Medical Career
McKee is a licensed physician and surgeon in California and Illinois, according to state medical records. He most recently worked as a vascular surgeon at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford.
An OSF spokesperson confirmed the hospital is cooperating with authorities. Records show McKee previously held a Nevada medical license that expired in June 2025, with no disciplinary actions reported in any state.
His medical training includes attending Ohio State University for medical school, a residency at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine completed in 2020, and a vascular surgery fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Center, finished in 2022.
Marriage to Monique Tepe
Court records from Franklin County, Ohio, show Monique married McKee in August 2015 at age 28. The marriage did not produce children, and there were no documented disputes in the court filings.
The divorce was finalized in June 2017, roughly one month after it was filed. At the time, the couple was already separated, with McKee living in Roanoke, Virginia, where he was completing his medical residency.
Why Investigators Focused on McKee
Interest in McKee intensified after Columbus police released surveillance video last week showing a “person of interest” walking in an alley near the couple’s home during the timeframe investigators believe the killings occurred.
Police have not confirmed whether McKee is the individual shown in the footage. However, according to CNN affiliate WBNS, investigators linked the video to a vehicle seen arriving shortly before the shooting and leaving soon afterward. The vehicle was later located in Rockford, Illinois, and registered to McKee, the report said.
McKee was arrested Saturday after officers confirmed his ownership of the vehicle.
What Happens Next
McKee remains in custody in Winnebago County and is expected to appear in court Monday. Authorities have not yet clarified the nature of the hearing, but extradition proceedings are required for him to be transferred to Ohio.
Court records show McKee faces two counts of murder in Franklin County. It is not yet known whether he has legal representation, and investigators have not publicly discussed a motive.
