Ohio dentist and wife found shot to death as family seeks answers

The killings of a young dentist and his wife inside their Columbus home have left a family searching for answers.

(NBC)-The killings of a young dentist and his wife inside their Columbus home have left a family searching for answers and a community struggling to understand how such a tragedy could happen.

Spencer and Monique Tepe were found shot to death last Tuesday inside the home where they were married and raising their two children, ages 1 and 4. Police discovered their bodies during a welfare check after Spencer Tepe failed to show up for work — something his coworkers said was completely out of character.

“We’re very, very concerned because this is very out of character, and we can’t get in touch with his wife, which is probably the more concerning thing,” a coworker told authorities, according to police records.

About an hour later, police received another 911 call from outside the home.

“I can hear kids inside, and I swear I think I heard one yell, but we can’t get in,” the caller said.

Minutes after that, a friend who had arrived at the house called 911 again, describing a horrific scene.

“He appears dead,” the caller said. “There’s blood. He’s laying next to his bed, off of his bed, in his blood.”

According to the police report, investigators found three spent 9-millimeter shell casings at the scene. Authorities say there were no signs of forced entry. The couple’s two young children were found inside the home unharmed.

As the investigation continues, police are urging the public to come forward with any information, particularly video captured in the area between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Tuesday.

Family members say they are still reeling from the loss.

“We’re all still in shock and obviously angry and just trying to piece this together,” said brother-in-law Rob Misleh.

He says Spencer and Monique were devoted parents whose lives revolved around their children.

“They lived for their children,” Misleh said. “Their lives became about their children and sharing their children with all of us and just loving them.”

Flowers have been placed outside the family’s home in recent days as neighbors and loved ones mourn — and as questions surrounding the couple’s deaths continue to mount.