Ex-Husband to Face Aggravated Murder Charges in Ohio Couple's Deaths

Michael McKee, 39, has waived his right to an extradition hearing and will be transferred from Illinois to Ohio to face charges in the deaths of his ex-wife, Monique Tepe, 39, and her husband, Dr. Spencer Tepe, 37. The couple was found shot dead in their Columbus home on December 30, 2025, after a wellness check prompted by Spencer's unexplained absence from work. Their two young children were present in the home but unharmed.

McKee, a vascular surgeon from Chicago, appeared in a Winnebago County court on January 12, where he indicated through his attorney his intent to plead not guilty. He is charged with two counts of aggravated murder with premeditation, which in Ohio carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without parole and could potentially lead to the death penalty.

Authorities identified McKee as a suspect after surveillance footage showed a person of interest near the Tepe residence during the suspected time of the attack. Further investigation linked a vehicle seen in the area to McKee, leading to his arrest in Rockford, Illinois.

McKee and Monique married in 2015 and divorced in 2017. Monique and Spencer married in 2020 and had two children together. The Tepe family expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts, stating, "We thank the community for the continued support, prayers and compassion shown throughout this tragedy. As the case proceeds, we trust the justice system to hold the person responsible fully accountable."

McKee is expected to be transferred to Franklin County, Ohio, this week, where he will make an initial court appearance.