UPDATE: A surgeon accused of murdering his ex-wife and her dentist husband in Columbus, Ohio, has entered a not guilty plea in an urgent court appearance. Michael McKee, 39, was extradited from Illinois to face four counts of premeditated aggravated murder related to the shocking double homicide that took place on December 30, 2022.
The grisly events unfolded between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. at the Weinland Park residence of Monique Tepe, 39, and her husband Spencer Tepe, 37. Authorities allege that McKee, who is Monique’s ex-husband, fatally shot the couple in their home. Police linked McKee to the crime through surveillance footage of a vehicle arriving in the area shortly before the incident and leaving immediately after.
In a remote arraignment hearing on January 10, 2023, McKee pleaded not guilty to charges including aggravated burglary and specifications alleging the use of an automatic firearm. Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant confirmed that weapons were seized from McKee’s property, suggesting one may be connected to the murders.
A friend discovered the couple’s bodies and reported the scene to emergency services, saying,
“We just came here, and he appears dead. He’s lying next to his bed, off of his bed in this blood.”
The chilling details of the crime, combined with the presence of the couple’s two young children at the home, have left the community in shock.
McKee’s defense attorney, Diane Menashe, is known for her previous high-profile case where she successfully defended an Ohio doctor against murder charges. The stakes are high as McKee faces serious charges that could lead to a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
As the investigation continues, the court will be monitoring developments closely. The next hearing is anticipated to draw significant public interest, given the emotional weight of the case and its implications for the victims’ families. The Tepes were preparing to celebrate their five-year wedding anniversary when tragedy struck, with Spencer’s brother-in-law revealing the couple’s young child was likely in a crib during the incident.
This case has captured national attention, highlighting issues of domestic violence and community safety. As more details emerge, the public is urged to stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
