Monique Tepe Left Night Out Upset About Ex-Husband Before Death

Monique Tepe's ex-husband Michael McKee is accused of murdering her and her husband Spencer Tepe.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:15pm

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Three weeks before her death, Monique Tepe left a night out with friends because she was 'upset about something involving her ex-husband' Michael McKee, according to an affidavit. Around the same time, McKee was allegedly captured on surveillance footage breaking into the Tepes' property in Columbus, Ohio. Investigators say McKee later drove over 400 miles from Illinois to the Tepes' home and killed the couple, while their two young children were sleeping nearby.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing threat and violence that can stem from domestic disputes, even years after a divorce. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of restraining orders and the need for stronger protections for victims of domestic abuse.

The details

According to the affidavit, on December 6, during a trip to watch the Big Ten Championship game, Monique suddenly left the group because she was 'upset about something involving her ex-husband.' Around that same time, McKee was allegedly captured on neighborhood surveillance footage breaking into the Tepes' property in Columbus. Investigators say McKee later drove over 400 miles from Illinois to the Tepes' home on December 30 and killed the couple, while their two young children were sleeping nearby.

  • On December 6, Monique Tepe left a night out with friends because she was 'upset about something involving her ex-husband'.
  • Around December 6, Michael McKee was allegedly captured on surveillance footage breaking into the Tepes' property in Columbus, Ohio.
  • On December 30, McKee allegedly drove over 400 miles from Illinois to the Tepes' home and killed the couple.

The players

Monique Tepe

The victim who was killed, along with her husband Spencer Tepe, by her ex-husband Michael McKee.

Michael McKee

Monique Tepe's ex-husband who is accused of murdering Monique and her husband Spencer Tepe.

Spencer Tepe

Monique Tepe's husband who was also killed by Michael McKee.

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What’s next

A judge will decide on January 23 whether to allow Michael McKee out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing threat and violence that can stem from domestic disputes, even years after a divorce. It underscores the need for stronger protections and support systems for victims of domestic abuse to prevent such senseless acts of violence.