Surgeon Accused of Killing Ex-Wife and Her Husband in Ohio

Michael McKee allegedly threatened ex-wife Monique Tepe before fatally shooting her and her dentist husband Spencer in Columbus.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:39am

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The recent arrest of Michael McKee in connection with the tragic deaths of Monique and Spencer Tepe in Columbus, Ohio, shines a stark light on the escalation of domestic violence and the potential for predictive policing to intervene. McKee, a surgeon, is accused of repeatedly threatening his ex-wife Monique, even stating he 'could kill her at any time,' before allegedly shooting and killing her and her dentist husband Spencer.

Why it matters

The Tepe case highlights how post-divorce abuse can be particularly dangerous, with 76% of intimate partner violence survivors reporting experiencing some form of abuse after leaving the relationship. McKee's alleged statements about continuing to see Monique as his wife and his desperate attempts to reassert power and control point to a disturbing pattern of behavior that often precedes lethal domestic violence.

The details

According to the investigation, McKee allegedly used neighborhood surveillance footage, stolen license plates, and phone monitoring to track the Tepes before the murders. The 17-hour gap in McKee's phone activity before the killings suggests a deliberate attempt to create an alibi, further indicating premeditation. Physical evidence like 'fresh scrape marks' on McKee's SUV also linked him to the crime scene.

  • On January 29, 2026, Monique and Spencer Tepe were found dead in their Columbus, Ohio home.
  • Prior to the murders, McKee had allegedly made repeated threats against Monique, including stating he 'could kill her at any time.'

The players

Michael McKee

A surgeon accused of killing his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her husband Spencer in Columbus, Ohio.

Monique Tepe

The ex-wife of Michael McKee, who was allegedly killed by him along with her husband Spencer.

Spencer Tepe

The dentist husband of Monique Tepe, who was allegedly killed by Michael McKee.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Michael McKee out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety, and the need for more effective domestic violence prevention strategies that leverage technology while protecting individual privacy rights.