Charges Upgraded Against Ex-Husband Accused of Murdering Ohio Dentist and Wife Feet Away from Their Children By Samira Asma-Sadeque and Chris Spargo

Authorities in Ohio have upgraded the charges against 39-year-old Michael David McKee, accused of killing his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her husband Spencer Tepe last month.

The Tepes, who a friend says were “madly in love,” were found slain in their Columbus, Ohio, home after police responded to several calls for a welfare check on Dec. 30.

McKee, an Illinois resident who Monique divorce nearly a decade ago, was arrested on Saturday, Jan. 10, on murder charges, according to booking information at the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office.

On Sunday, Franklin County, Ohio authorities upgraded his charges to aggravated murder, according to court documents obtained by PEOPLE.

The slayings sparked an intense investigation, garnering nationwide interest.

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Monique, 39, and Spencer, 37, were a beloved couple known for their contagious, radiant energy. The couple celebrated their five-year wedding anniversary on Dec. 13, 2025, just days before the killings.

Their two children, ages 4 and 1, were found physically unharmed in the residence when police conducted the welfare check. They are now in the care of extended family members.

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McKee is awaiting extradition to Franklin County, Ohio, where he is scheduled to appear in court on Monday afternoon.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.