Family Shares How Young Siblings Are Coping After Losing Both Parents in Ohio Tragedy
The children, ages 4 and 1, are being cared for by extended family who are working with professionals to help them navigate their grief
Relatives of slain Ohio couple Monique and Spencer Tepe reveal how their young children are processing the unimaginable loss while keeping their parents’ spirit alive.
A Heartbreaking Farewell
The 4-year-old daughter of Monique and Spencer Tepe recently said her final goodbye to her parents, but according to family members, she continues to embody the vibrant personalities of both her mother and father.
The Tepe children were present in their Columbus home during the early morning hours of December 30th when their parents were fatally shot. Authorities estimate the crime occurred sometime between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., while both children were likely asleep in their nearby bedroom, according to Spencer’s brother-in-law, Rob Misleh.
The Morning After
Later that same morning, a friend of Spencer’s arrived at the residence for what should have been a routine visit. Unable to enter the home and hearing crying from inside, he immediately contacted emergency services requesting a welfare check. That distressing call would ultimately lead to the discovery of the tragic scene inside.
According to Misleh, the crying likely came from the couple’s 1-year-old son, who was unable to climb out of his crib on his own. Both children were discovered physically unharmed just feet away from where their parents lay.
Processing an Unfathomable Loss
More than two weeks have passed since the murders, and the siblings are now living with members of their extended family. The challenge facing their loved ones is enormous: how do you explain to such young children why their parents have vanished from their lives?
The toddler, at just one year old, probably lacks the cognitive development to fully comprehend what has happened, Misleh explained. However, the situation differs significantly for his older sister.
Spencer’s cousin, Audrey Mackie, shared with PEOPLE the profound sadness surrounding the children’s future. “The unfortunate reality is they’ll never truly know their parents,” she said. “With any luck, the older child might retain some memories. It’s absolutely heartbreaking.”
Keeping Their Parents’ Spirit Alive
Described by family as a “ball of energy,” the 4-year-old daughter shares striking personality traits with both Monique and Spencer. Misleh notes that she’s perceptive enough to sense that something significant has changed in her world.
“She possesses a vibrant personality, much like both her mom and dad,” Misleh shared. “You can absolutely see their essence shining through her.”
Despite maintaining her naturally energetic disposition, there are moments when the weight of the situation becomes visible. Misleh recounted instances where the young girl would transition suddenly from playful activities to periods of unexplained seriousness.
“I witnessed times when she’d be jumping around and having fun, then abruptly become very quiet and contemplative,” he explained. “While it hasn’t led to direct conversations yet, you can observe the shift in her demeanor.”
Navigating Uncharted Territory
The extended family is consulting with mental health professionals and following expert guidance on how to address such traumatic circumstances with young children. They recently received specialized books focused on discussing difficult topics like death and loss with kids.
“When she’s ready to talk about it, we want to create space for that conversation,” Mackie emphasized. “We’re navigating this situation day by day and learning alongside the children.”
The approach is deliberately child-led, allowing the 4-year-old to process at her own pace rather than forcing discussions she may not be ready for.
A Family United in Grief
Despite the devastating circumstances, caring for the orphaned children has strengthened bonds among the Tepe family members. They’ve rallied together to ensure both kids grow up knowing who their parents were and feeling surrounded by love.
“We have an incredible support system, and our family circle just expanded,” Mackie stated. “All of us are committed to honoring Spencer and Monique in the most meaningful way possible, and making sure these children know their parents as well as they can.”
A crowdfunding campaign has been established to provide financial support for the children’s future needs.
The Legal Proceedings
Michael David McKee, Monique’s former husband, has been taken into custody in connection with the double homicide. Law enforcement officials have classified the incident as domestic violence-related but have not disclosed a specific motive.
McKee’s legal representative has indicated plans to enter a not guilty plea to the aggravated murder charges he faces.
Resources for Domestic Violence
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available 24/7 through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or online at thehotline.org. Services are confidential, toll-free, and accessible in over 170 languages.