Authorities have released security footage of a person of interest in the killing of an Ohio couple who were found shot to death in their home last week.
Police in Columbus found Dr. Spencer Tepe, a 37-year-old dentist, and Monique Tepe, 39, with gunshot wounds on the second floor of their home at about 10 a.m. on December 30 during a wellness check, authorities said. Medical personnel later pronounced them dead.
The couple’s two young children were also in the home but were unharmed, police said.
What happened?
Many questions remain about the case, including who might have killed the couple and why.
Detectives believe the Tepe family was attacked between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on the day they were found. A spokesperson for the Franklin County Coroner’s Office stated that the couple died in an 'apparent homicide by gunshot wounds,' with official reports expected in several weeks.
Video shows a person of interest
On Monday, police released security footage of a person of interest, showing a figure walking in an alley near the couple’s home during the crucial hours of the attack. The individual was described as wearing light-colored pants and a dark hooded jacket, prompting police to ask for public assistance in identifying them.
'We know there are questions and concerns surrounding this tragic incident,' police stated. 'Detectives are working diligently to solve this case.'
A community mourns
Family members expressed their sorrow, referring to the Tepe couple as 'extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy and deep connection to others.'
Dr. Spencer Tepe, a graduate of Ohio State University, was a member of the American Dental Association and volunteered with Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Meanwhile, Monique Tepe was remembered as a loving mother who enjoyed baking and planning family activities.
'They were the proud parents of two beautiful children, and every day they showed up with unwavering love and devotion to their family,' stated a cousin, Audrey Mackie.
