New surveillance footage in Columbus dentist murders as records show prior 911 call months before Weinland Park shooting
Columbus, Ohio, is reeling after dentist Spencer Tepe, 37, and his wife, Monique Tepe, 39, were found shot to death in their Weinland Park home on Dec. 30; police released surveillance footage and are appealing for public tips.
- Victims: Spencer Tepe, 37, a Columbus dentist, and his wife, Monique Tepe, 39. (Sources: Fox News, 6ABC, Columbus police video)
- Children: Two young children, ages 4 and 1, were inside the home and were unharmed.
- Investigation: No signs of forced entry, no weapon recovered; police released alley surveillance showing a person of interest and asked for any footage from midnight–9 a.m. on Dec. 30.
How the deaths were discovered
Welfare check triggered the discovery. Spencer’s employer, Mark Valrose of Athens Dental Depot, grew concerned when Spencer failed to show up for work on Dec. 30 and asked police for a welfare check. At about 10:03 a.m., a friend reported seeing a body through a window and told officers, “He’s laying next to his bed, off of his bed in this blood.”
Police responded and found both Spencer and Monique with apparent gunshot wounds on the home’s second floor. Authorities estimate the shootings occurred earlier that morning, likely between about 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.
Prior 911 call raised in records
City records show a separate 911 call from the Tepe home in the early hours of April 15, 2025. The caller, crying, told dispatchers she and “my man got into it,” hung up, called back and later said she did not need officers. Dispatch logs did not identify the caller, and city officials have not provided further details. That April call has been added to investigators’ files as they piece together the case. (Fox News)
Person of interest video and public appeal
Surveillance released: Columbus police shared footage showing a person walking slowly in an alley near the Tepe home during the hours investigators say the killings likely occurred. The person appears to wear a dark coat or hooded jacket, light-colored pants, and has hands in pockets.
Investigators asked residents and businesses to review camera feeds and photos for anyone or any vehicle seen between midnight and 9 a.m. on Dec. 30 in an area that includes Summit Street, North Pearl Avenue, East 7th and East 11th Avenues. So far, police say no camera footage has been found that directly ties to a suspect and no weapon has been located. (6ABC, police video)
Timeline and forensic details
Police believe the shooting occurred on the second floor several hours before the bodies were found. The estimated window is roughly 2 a.m.–5 a.m. Investigators are focusing on how an individual could enter and leave without evidence of forced entry, whether the victims knew the intruder, and whether nearby cameras, phone records, or witnesses can provide clarity.
Complicating the probe: No weapon has been recovered, and officials have not publicly identified a suspect. Detectives continue to follow leads and canvass the neighborhood for evidence.
Family and community response
Family statements: The Tepe family described Spencer as a devoted father and warm, intelligent man and called Monique a loving, patient and joyful mother. The couple, married in 2021 and planning a five‑year anniversary celebration, were described by relatives as taken in a senseless act. Brother‑in‑law Rob Misleh said he could not understand how anyone would target the couple and leave their young children without parents. The family said they are “heartbroken beyond words” and vowed to help investigators.
“Heartbroken beyond words,” the family said, and urged anyone with information to come forward.
What law enforcement wants from the public
Columbus police are asking anyone with video or information to come forward. Residents are urged to review doorbell, Ring, traffic or security camera footage from midnight to 9 a.m. on Dec. 30 and report any suspicious people or vehicles in the Summit Street corridor and surrounding blocks.
- Columbus police tips: 614-645-2228
- Central Ohio Crime Stoppers (anonymous tips): 614-461-8477
Weinland Park context and community safety concerns
Weinland Park, a mixed neighborhood near Ohio State University, was shaken by a violent double killing in a family home. The lack of forced entry is especially troubling for residents who expect homes near campus and city neighborhoods to be private and secure. Police say the investigation is active and officers continue to canvas the area for evidence and witnesses.
Implications for Hesperia, California
Local impacts to consider: Though geographically distant, the Tepe case may prompt Hesperia residents and officials to review security plans, neighborhood watches, and coordination between city services and law enforcement. Possible effects include:
- Economic: Small-business owners may re-evaluate staff safety, alarm protocols and early-shift procedures.
- Political: Calls for increased patrols or funding for community policing could intensify among voters who prioritize law and order.
- Social and cultural: The loss of two parents resonates widely; faith groups, schools, and charities may mobilize to support grieving families and strengthen community safety education.
- Practical steps: Check outdoor lighting, secure windows and doors, preserve and back up camera footage, exchange contacts with trusted neighbors, and keep emergency plans updated.
What investigators say next
Investigation ongoing. Officials have not released names of suspects and stress the probe remains active. Investigators want anyone who recognizes the person in the released alley footage or who saw activity in the area between midnight and 9 a.m. on Dec. 30 to contact police. Calls to Crime Stoppers can be anonymous.
References and how to view reported coverage
- Fox News: 911 call at Ohio dentist’s home reported domestic dispute months before he, wife found shot dead
- 6ABC: New video released in mysterious Weinland Park shooting that killed Columbus dentist and wife
- Police surveillance footage released (video)
If you have information: Contact Columbus police at 614-645-2228 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477. Please preserve any original footage and note timestamps; investigators ask residents to save and back up camera files before sharing.
