The recent first court appearance of Michael David McKee in connection with the premeditated murders of his ex-wife Monique Tepe and her husband Spencer Tepe has brought new layers of insight into the suspect’s personal life, including revelations about longstanding frustrations over childlessness that may have fueled resentment.

A longtime acquaintance of McKee, speaking anonymously to media outlets as the case reached its initial courtroom phase on January 12, 2026, in Winnebago County, Illinois, offered a revealing glimpse into McKee’s mindset during his marriage to Monique. “They argued a lot about not having children—that was his dream. Perhaps that’s why he overlooked the children,” the source said, alluding to the fact that McKee allegedly spared Monique and Spencer’s two young kids (ages 4 and 1) during the December 30, 2025, attack in their Columbus, Ohio, home. The comment suggests a complex mix of personal disappointment and possible twisted rationale, though police have not publicly confirmed motive beyond labeling the killings a “targeted domestic violence-related” incident.

McKee, 39, a vascular surgeon previously affiliated with OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, Illinois, appeared in shackles and a yellow prison jumpsuit during his extradition-related hearing. Represented by a public defender, he waived his right to fight extradition, consenting to transfer to Franklin County, Ohio, to face two counts of aggravated murder with premeditation—charges upgraded from initial murder counts shortly before the hearing. His attorney indicated he plans to plead not guilty. The court set a follow-up hearing for January 23, 2026, in Rockford, but extradition proceedings are underway, with transport expected soon though potentially delayed beyond initial 10-day timelines.

The case stems from the shocking discovery of Spencer Tepe, 37, a dentist, and Monique Tepe, 39, fatally shot in their Weinland Park residence. Spencer suffered multiple gunshot wounds, Monique at least one to the chest. Their children, Emilia and Beckham, and family dog were unharmed inside, with no forced entry or signs of theft, ruling out random crime. Colleagues reported Spencer missing from work, triggering a welfare check that uncovered the tragedy. The couple, married nearly five years and approaching their anniversary, left behind a portrait of a joyful family.

Investigators zeroed in on McKee early due to his history with Monique. They married in 2015 but divorced in 2017 after a brief, reportedly abusive union. Family members, including Monique’s brother-in-law Rob Misleh, described her as terrified during the marriage, with McKee allegedly threatening her life multiple times. “She just had to get away from him,” Misleh told outlets like ABC News. Monique found stability and happiness with Spencer, building a life in Columbus with two children—something McKee and Monique never had together, as divorce records confirm no kids from their union.

On January 14, 2026, Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant announced McKee as the sole suspect, citing compelling evidence: surveillance video of a person of interest (believed to be McKee) in a nearby alley the night of the murders; vehicle tracking data showing McKee’s car traveling over 400 miles from Illinois, arriving before and departing after the killings; and a firearm recovered from his Chicago condo (Lincoln Park area) that preliminarily matched via NIBIN ballistic testing to 9mm casings and wounds at the scene. “We believe at this point we have the person responsible,” Bryant stated, emphasizing premeditation and no accomplices.

The acquaintance’s quote about childlessness adds a speculative dimension to potential motive. McKee reportedly longed for children, clashing repeatedly with Monique over the issue during their marriage. Sources suggest this unfulfilled dream may have bred jealousy upon seeing Monique thrive in motherhood with Spencer. Speculation in media and expert commentary points to lingering resentment—seeing “that should have been me” in Monique’s new family life. However, authorities have withheld full motive details to preserve prosecution integrity. No prior protective orders or Columbus police reports involving McKee and the Tepes were noted.

McKee’s background contrasts sharply with the allegations. A high-achieving student from Zanesville, Ohio—National Merit Scholar, spelling bee winner, science award recipient—he pursued medicine successfully. Yet recent years brought complications: medical malpractice lawsuits in Nevada (one naming him in negligence claims from 2023, another active civil rights/medical issue), and reports of evading service by using fake addresses. His employer cooperated with investigators post-arrest.

Family of the victims expressed no surprise at McKee’s identification. Misleh and others highlighted Monique’s past fears versus her joyful life with Spencer, described as a devoted father, mentor, and kind soul. Community tributes poured in for the couple’s warmth—hosts who gathered friends, with Spencer loving golf and Monique passionate about running and baking.

As McKee awaits extradition and arraignment in Ohio (where aggravated murder can carry life imprisonment or death penalty), the case underscores domestic violence’s enduring shadow. The children’s survival amid horror has galvanized support in Columbus, with vigils and calls for justice. The acquaintance’s reflection on McKee’s “dream” of children casts a haunting light on how personal unfulfillment might intersect with violence, though the full story awaits trial.