Surgeon Charged with Murdering Ex-Wife and Her Husband in Ohio

Michael McKee allegedly drove 900 miles in 17 hours on the night of the killings, according to investigators.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:07pm

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Michael McKee, a vascular surgeon, has been charged with four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary for the killings of his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her dentist husband Spencer Tepe in Columbus, Ohio. Investigators allege that McKee drove 450 miles from Illinois to Ohio and then another 450 miles back to Illinois in just 17 hours on the night of the murders, based on his cell phone activity.

Why it matters

This case highlights the lengths an alleged perpetrator will go to cover their tracks and the challenges law enforcement face in piecing together a timeline of events, especially when dealing with a suspect who is a medical professional with the means and knowledge to potentially evade detection.

The details

According to the probable cause affidavit, McKee allegedly left St. Anthony Hospital in Rockford, Illinois sometime after 5 p.m. on December 29, 2025 and his cellphone remained untouched at his workplace for the next 17 hours. During that time, he is accused of driving 450 miles to the Tepes' home in Columbus, Ohio, committing the murders, and then driving another 450 miles back to Illinois. The exact route and any stops he made along the way are not being disclosed by investigators at this time.

  • McKee allegedly left Rockford, Illinois after 5 p.m. on December 29, 2025.
  • A car linked to McKee allegedly arrived in the Tepes' neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio just before 3:52 a.m. on December 30, 2025.
  • McKee was back in Rockford by noon on December 30, 2025.

The players

Michael McKee

A vascular surgeon who is charged with four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary for the killings of his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her dentist husband Spencer Tepe.

Monique Tepe

McKee's ex-wife who was killed along with her husband Spencer Tepe.

Spencer Tepe

Monique Tepe's dentist husband who was killed along with his wife.

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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)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn 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 on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.