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Tepe Killings Expose Domestic Violence Crisis in Columbus
The tragic deaths of Monique and Spencer Tepe highlight the dangers of domestic violence and the need for the community to prioritize prevention and support for survivors.
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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The tragic deaths of Monique and Spencer Tepe, a married couple in Columbus, Ohio, have exposed the city's ongoing struggle with domestic violence. According to court records and statements from friends and family, Monique's ex-husband, Michael McKee, had a history of threatening, harassing, and stalking her even after their divorce. The Tepes were found dead in their home, leaving behind their two young children. This incident has prompted calls for greater awareness, resources, and action to address domestic violence in the Columbus community.
Why it matters
The Tepe killings highlight the urgent need for Columbus to confront the crisis of domestic violence in the city. Nearly 40% of the city's homicides in 2025 were related to domestic violence, and statewide, domestic violence deaths increased 37% in the previous year. This tragedy underscores the danger victims face, especially during and after leaving abusive relationships, and the importance of providing adequate support and resources to protect survivors.
The details
According to court records, Michael McKee, Monique Tepe's ex-husband, had a history of threatening, harassing, and stalking her even after their divorce was finalized in 2017. Monique reportedly told friends and family that McKee had abused her during their marriage and continued to threaten her life. On the night of the incident, McKee allegedly entered the Tepes' home in Weinland Park while they were away at a football game. When Monique returned to their hotel, she was reportedly upset about something involving her ex-husband. The next morning, the bullet-riddled bodies of Monique and Spencer Tepe were found in their home, while their two young children and the family pet were unharmed.
- In June 2017, the divorce between Monique Tepe and Michael McKee was finalized.
- On December 30, the bodies of Monique and Spencer Tepe were found in their Columbus home.
The players
Monique Tepe
A 37-year-old dentist and stay-at-home mom with a master's degree in early childhood education, who was allegedly abused and threatened by her ex-husband, Michael McKee, even after their divorce.
Spencer Tepe
A 39-year-old stay-at-home dad and Ohio State graduate, who was killed alongside his wife, Monique, in their Columbus home.
Michael McKee
An Illinois vascular surgeon and Monique Tepe's ex-husband, who allegedly threatened, harassed, and stalked Monique even after their divorce was finalized in 2017.
Rachel Lustig
The president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio, which includes LSS CHOICES for Domestic Violence, a organization that provides counseling, shelter, and other services to domestic violence survivors in the Columbus area.
Rena Shak
The executive director of the Office of Violence Prevention in Columbus, who reported that about 40% of the city's homicides in 2025 were related to domestic violence.
What they’re saying
“The biggest danger occurs immediately after the separation, but there's no magical time at which it ends (and no) magical amount of time at which healing occurs.”
— Rachel Lustig, President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio
“She was terrified because he had threatened her life on multiple occasions when they were married. She wasn't shy about talking to people about traumatic experiences she had with her ex and just how emotionally abusive he was to her.”
— Rob Misleh, Brother-in-law of Monique Tepe (NBC News)
“If you're scared, ask for help. If there are any concerns that you have, if you feel this pattern of threatening behavior escalates or just is continuing — just reach out for help. You deserve it. Your children deserve it.”
— Rachel Lustig, President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio
What’s next
A task force and education campaign have been launched by Columbus and Franklin County officials to connect community members with more domestic violence resources and streamline the criminal justice process for victims and perpetrators. The year-long Domestic Violence 101 Education Campaign includes in-person events at local high schools and other locations.
The takeaway
The Tepe killings have exposed the urgent need for Columbus to address its domestic violence crisis. With nearly 40% of the city's homicides in 2025 linked to domestic violence, and statewide domestic violence deaths increasing 37% the previous year, this tragedy highlights the danger victims face and the importance of providing adequate support and resources to protect survivors. Increased awareness, community engagement, and a coordinated response are crucial to preventing such tragedies and supporting those affected by domestic violence in Columbus.
