Authorities in Ohio are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying a person of interest connected to the tragic deaths of a local couple.

The Columbus Police Department has reported that Spencer Tepe, 37, and Monique Tepe, 39, were discovered deceased from gunshot injuries on the morning of December 30. This disturbing incident has shaken the community, and police are working diligently to piece together the events leading to this tragedy.

In a bid to gather more information, police have made public a crucial piece of evidence—a security video released a week after the incident. The footage, captured by a nearby residence’s camera, potentially holds the key to solving the case. It features an individual dressed in light-colored pants and a hooded jacket, seen navigating through an alleyway during the critical hours between 2:00 and 5:00 a.m., the timeframe authorities believe the murders occurred.

Police received a call to perform a wellness check on the couple, leading them to enter the Tepe residence at around 10:04 a.m. on the morning of the discovery. Inside, officers found Spencer and Monique on the second floor, both having suffered fatal gunshot wounds. In a stroke of relief amidst the tragedy, the couple’s two children were also found in the home but were unharmed.

The release of the video is a pivotal step in the investigation, as detectives hope that someone in the community might recognize the person seen in the footage. The police urge anyone who can help identify this individual or provide further information about the incident to come forward, as they continue to seek justice for the Tepe family and ensure the safety of the community.

Responding officers went to the second floor of their home, where the couple was discovered with gunshot wounds. The couple’s two children were also found inside the home, but they were unharmed. 

Paramedics arrived minutes later and pronounced them dead at 10:11 a.m. 

“We want to thank the community for the tips we have received. We know there are questions and concerns surrounding this tragic incident,” police told locals in their plea for assistance Jan. 3. “Detectives are working diligently to solve this case. We will continue to update you as the investigation progresses.” 

Spencer graduated from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry in 2017, earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery, according to a bio on Athens Dental Depot’s website.

“Dr. Tepe is passionate about delivering the highest quality of care and a comfortable experience while building meaningful relationships with his patients,” the description reads. “Outside of the office, Dr. Tepe enjoys golf, travel, and time with his family.”

Spencer and Monique’s loved ones are determined to help investigators find those responsible. 

“While no outcome can ever undo this loss, our family is committed to seeing this tragedy fully and fairly brought to justice,” their family said in a statement, per WSYX, “and to honoring Spencer and Monique by protecting the future of the children they loved so deeply.”