In a poignant interview that has added emotional depth to the ongoing murder investigation, Spencer Tepe’s brother-in-law, Rob Misleh, has come forward with disturbing details about Monique Tepe’s brief and tumultuous marriage to her ex-husband, Michael David McKee. Misleh told NBC News on January 13, 2026, that Monique confided in him about McKee’s alleged emotional abuse and multiple death threats during their time together, describing the relationship as one that left her terrified and profoundly affected. These revelations come as McKee, 39, faces two counts of aggravated murder in the December 30, 2025, shootings of Monique, 39, and Spencer, 37, in their Columbus home, with prosecutors building a case around a history of domestic turmoil.
Misleh, speaking candidly about Monique’s experiences, said she wasn’t shy about discussing the trauma. “She was terrified because he had threatened her life on multiple occasions when they were married,” he told NBC News. He emphasized the emotional toll, noting that McKee was “emotionally abusive” and that the abuse “affected her to this day.” Misleh clarified that he was unaware of any physical abuse or recent threats but stressed that the family suspected McKee from the outset due to his past behavior. “He’s clearly mentally unstable,” Misleh added, underscoring the family’s quick belief in his involvement after the killings. The marriage, which lasted only seven months before ending in divorce in 2017, was described by Misleh as “hell,” with Monique willing to do anything to escape it.
The Tepes were found dead in their master bedroom in the Weinland Park neighborhood after friends and colleagues, unable to reach Spencer at his dental practice, called for a welfare check. Police arrived around 10 a.m. on December 30, 2025, discovering the couple with gunshot wounds. Their two young children, aged 1 and 4, were unharmed but crying in another room, a detail that has haunted the community. No signs of forced entry or theft were evident, leading authorities to classify the incident as a targeted domestic violence attack. Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant confirmed in a briefing that it was not a random crime or murder-suicide, pointing to McKee’s relationship with Monique as a key factor.
McKee was arrested on January 10, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois, where he worked as a vascular surgeon. A multi-state manhunt ensued after surveillance footage placed a figure resembling McKee near the crime scene and his vehicle in the vicinity. During a search of his property, police recovered multiple firearms, one of which matched the murder weapon through ballistic testing. Chief Bryant noted a “strong evidentiary link,” including a preliminary 7-minute phone call recording that captured McKee in an agitated state, though details remain sealed. McKee waived extradition on January 12 and is en route to Franklin County for arraignment, facing life imprisonment if convicted.
The family’s frustration with law enforcement has been palpable. Misleh revealed that police never informed them McKee was a suspect or provided details about him, despite their suspicions rooted in his history of threats. “We suspected him because of the prior emotional abuse he inflicted on Monique,” Misleh said. This lack of communication has raised questions about victim family protocols in domestic violence cases. The Tepe family issued a statement thanking the community for support and expressing hope for justice, while focusing on caring for the orphaned children.
Domestic violence experts have highlighted the case as a textbook example of how emotional abuse can escalate. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, such abuse affects millions, often involving threats and manipulation that erode mental health. In Ohio, where incidents have risen, advocates call for better recognition of non-physical signs. Psychologist Carol Pettler, commenting on similar cases, noted the “tremendous emotional growth” survivors like Monique exhibit, but warned of lingering dangers.
McKee’s background adds complexity. Once a promising surgeon, he faced license revocation in 2024 over ethical issues, relocating to Illinois. Colleagues reported erratic behavior, including a 7-minute call where he cursed and vowed revenge, prompting his abrupt departure. This incident, combined with family allegations, paints a picture of instability.
The community mourns. Spencer, a dedicated dentist, and Monique, a devoted mother, left a void. A GoFundMe for their children has raised over $200,000. As trial preparations begin, the focus is on justice and healing.
