Respected Surgeon Charged with Murdering Ex-Wife and Her Husband

Michael McKee accused of using a silencer in the alleged killings of Monique and Spencer Tepe

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:34am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a firearm silencer against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic.The alleged use of a silencer in this case raises unsettling questions about premeditation and the dynamics of domestic violence.Columbus Today

A respected vascular surgeon from Chicago, Michael McKee, has been indicted on five counts, including four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary, in connection with the deaths of his ex-wife, Monique Tepe, and her husband, Spencer Tepe, a dentist. The indictment alleges that McKee used a firearm equipped with a silencer during the commission of the crimes, raising questions about premeditation.

Why it matters

The use of a silencer in an alleged murder case is highly unusual and suggests a level of planning and intent that could have significant legal implications for the prosecution's case against McKee. This case has also shaken the local community and raised concerns about domestic violence, the dynamics of the former couple's relationship, and how a respected medical professional could be accused of such a violent act.

The details

According to the indictment, McKee, who is 39 years old, faces the possibility of life in prison without parole if convicted on all counts. Monique Tepe, also 39, and Spencer Tepe, 37, were found dead in their Columbus, Ohio, home last month. McKee was apprehended by ATF agents in Rockford, Illinois, and is currently awaiting extradition to Ohio. The indictment revealed that a weapon linked to the Tepes' deaths was discovered at McKee's residence, which likely played a significant role in the grand jury's decision to indict him.

  • Monique and Spencer Tepe were found dead on December 30th.
  • McKee was apprehended by ATF agents in Rockford, Illinois, shortly after the incident.

The players

Michael McKee

A 39-year-old vascular surgeon from Chicago who has been indicted on five counts, including four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary, in connection with the deaths of his ex-wife and her husband.

Monique Tepe

McKee's 39-year-old ex-wife who was found dead in her Columbus, Ohio, home along with her husband.

Spencer Tepe

A 37-year-old dentist and the new husband of Monique Tepe, who was also found dead in their Columbus, Ohio, home.

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What they’re saying

“What we can say, this was a targeted attack. This was a domestic violence-related attack.”

— Elaine Bryant, Columbus Police Chief

What’s next

McKee is currently awaiting extradition to Columbus, Ohio, and remains in custody at the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford. The prosecution will need to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and the use of a silencer in the alleged crimes will be a key focus of the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for greater awareness and support for victims. It also raises questions about how a respected medical professional could be accused of such a violent act and the role that premeditation and the use of a silencer may play in the prosecution's case.