In a heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case that has shaken the community of Utica, Ohio, a young father is now facing some of the most serious criminal charges possible after the tragic death of his infant daughter. Riley Jo Topp, a joyful four-month-old lovingly remembered by her family as “sweet Smiley Riley,” pᴀssed away on October 13, 2023, under circumstances that investigators say point to an unthinkable act by the very person entrusted with her care.

The story begins on a quiet evening in Utica, Licking County, when first responders rushed to a family home on Crestview Drive just after 7 p.m. They found the four-month-old baby unresponsive. Emergency crews immediately transported little Riley to Licking Memorial Hospital, where medical staff worked tirelessly to save her life. Sadly, despite their best efforts, Riley was pronounced ᴅᴇᴀᴅ. What initially appeared to be a medical emergency soon raised serious concerns when hospital staff noticed suspicious injuries, including bruising around the infant’s neck and jawline. Those observations triggered a thorough, multi-year investigation by the Licking County Sheriff’s Office that would ultimately lead to criminal charges against her father.

Riley Jo Topp was born on May 27, 2023, weighing 6 pounds 4 ounces and measuring 19 inches long. Her obituary described her as a baby who brought immense joy to everyone around her, with the brightest, most precious smile that lit up every room. She was the beloved daughter of Keegan Richter and Chance Terrence Topp, and a cherished little sister to Navalynn and Aurora. Family and friends remembered Riley as “everything joyful” and “the most loved baby on this planet.” Her short life was filled with love, and her pᴀssing left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her entire family.

According to court documents and statements released by authorities, 27-year-old Chance Terrence Topp was alone with Riley that evening while her mother was at work. Investigators allege that when the infant began crying, Topp—reportedly tired from drinking, smoking Delta-8 THC, and playing video games—became frustrated. Court records state that he admitted to forcefully holding the baby’s pacifier against her mouth and face in an attempt to silence her so he could go back to sleep. Tragically, this action allegedly led to Riley’s suffocation. Topp reportedly told police he later heard her gasping for air, attempted CPR, and ran for help, but did not call 911 himself. The family also informed investigators that Topp frequently cared for the baby while under the influence and was often inattentive to her needs.

The investigation revealed additional concerning details. Riley tested positive for Delta-8 THC, a substance Topp admitted using that day to “calm himself down.” More than two years of careful detective work followed, during which Topp was interviewed multiple times. Authorities say his initial statements were inconsistent with the evidence, leading to a grand jury indictment in 2025 that added even more serious charges.

Today, Chance Terrence Topp faces 13 felony counts, including aggravated murder, two counts of murder, two counts of involuntary manslaughter, two counts of endangering children, felonious ᴀssault, strangulation, reckless homicide, two counts of domestic violence, and falsification. Under Ohio law, a conviction on the aggravated murder charge alone could result in the most severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty. Topp has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the case continues to move through the court system with a high bond set at $2 million.

This tragedy has prompted important conversations about the immense pressures of new parenthood, the dangers of substance use while caring for infants, and the critical need for strong support systems for families. Parenting a newborn is one of life’s most demanding responsibilities — it requires patience, rest, and sometimes outside help. No parent should ever feel they must handle everything alone, especially during those exhausting early months when sleep deprivation is real and overwhelming. Experts emphasize that reaching out for help from family, friends, or professional resources is never a sign of weakness but rather an act of love and responsibility.

Riley’s family has asked for privacy as they grieve, but they have also shared heartfelt messages honoring her memory. Her mother and extended family continue to remember her as the happy, smiling baby who brought light into their lives. In her obituary, loved ones encouraged others to “smile for Riley” and to replace the smiles the world lost when she was taken too soon. Funeral services were held at the Utica United Methodist Church, where the community came together to celebrate her brief but beautiful life.

As the legal process unfolds, many in Ohio and beyond are reflecting on how such a preventable loss could occur. Child protective services records reportedly showed prior involvement with the family, underscoring the importance of early intervention and support for struggling parents. This case serves as a somber reminder that every child deserves to be protected, nurtured, and kept safe by the adults in their lives.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Riley’s mother Keegan Richter, her siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and all who loved this precious little girl. No words can heal the pain of losing a child so young, but the outpouring of love and support from the community shows that Riley’s memory will live on in the hearts of many. May her short life continue to inspire greater awareness around infant safety, parental mental health resources, and the absolute priority of keeping babies safe from harm.

In times like these, we are reminded of how fragile life is and how vital it is for society to offer compᴀssion, practical help, and resources to new parents before exhaustion or poor choices lead to irreversible consequences. Riley Jo Topp’s story is a call to action — to check on new families, to support those who are struggling, and to ensure that no baby ever has to suffer because a caregiver was too tired, too impaired, or too overwhelmed to ask for help.

Rest in peace, sweet Smiley Riley. Your smiles may have been taken from this world far too soon, but the love you brought into it will never be forgotten.