Monique and Spencer Tepe were found dead in their home, and new autopsy findings reveal the brutal nature of their final moments. Both victims were shot 16 times — a full handgun magazine — with each victim shot in the head, according to newly released court documents.
Background
Monique Tepe, 36, and her husband Spencer, 38, were discovered in their residence. Initial reports suggested Monique had been shot once in the chest and that three shell casings were found at the scene. However, full autopsy results released this week showed a far more violent attack. Monique was shot in the right cheek, while Spencer was struck in the left ear. Forensic investigators determined the victims likely died within seconds to minutes of being shot.
The investigation revealed that Michael McKee, 39, Monique's ex-husband, had traveled approximately 900 miles from Illinois to commit the murders. Court documents indicate McKee had previously visited the couple's home on Dec. 6, 2025, while they were away. Witnesses interviewed by investigators claimed McKee was abusive during his marriage to Monique and had threatened to kill her.
The Investigation
Michael McKee was arrested and is currently being held without bond in the Franklin County Jail. He pleaded not guilty to four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary. If convicted, he faces a minimum sentence of life in prison with parole eligibility after 32 years.
Investigators tracked McKee through surveillance video that captured a silver SUV traveling to the scene. Police also executed a search warrant at McKee's Chicago-area condo, where they recovered multiple weapons. One of the firearms recovered has been forensically linked to the crime scene, according to court documents.
The trajectory of bullets and injuries suffered indicate some movement by both victims during the attack. Investigators note the range of fire remains indeterminate, and it is impossible to determine the order in which the injuries were inflicted.
Key Takeaways
- Autopsies revealed 16 total gunshot wounds between the two victims — a full handgun magazine
- Both Spencer and Monique Tepe were shot in the head: Monique in her right cheek, Spencer in his left ear
- Michael McKee drove 900 miles from Illinois to commit the murders
- McKee is charged with four counts of aggravated murder and one count of aggravated burglary
- Investigators linked a weapon from McKee's Chicago condo to the crime scene
- Court documents reveal McKee had threatened to kill Monique during their marriage
What's Next
Michael McKee remains held without bond in Franklin County Jail as the case proceeds. His next court appearance has not yet been scheduled, but prosecutors indicated they will pursue the maximum charges available. The case is expected to involve extensive forensic analysis and witness testimony regarding the couple's relationship with the defendant.