An Ohio man is facing multiple charges after allegedly suffocating his 4-month-old daughter with a pacifier because he “wanted to go back to sleep.”
Charges Filed
Chance Topp, 29, was indicted on 13 counts related to the October 2023 death of his daughter, identified as R.T. in court records. Charges include:
- Aggravated murder
- Two counts of murder
- Two counts of involuntary manslaughter
- Two counts of endangering children
- Felonious assault
- Strangulation
- Reckless homicide
- Two counts of domestic violence
- Falsification
Topp pleaded not guilty to the new charges during a May 19 hearing and remains jailed on a $200,000 bond, reduced from $2 million.
Incident Details
On October 13, 2023, police and sheriff’s deputies responded to a home on Crestview Drive after reports of an unresponsive infant. First responders found the baby motionless. Family members reportedly confronted Topp, asking, “What did you do?”
Topp initially told investigators he had fallen asleep and woke to find the baby gasping, claiming he attempted CPR but did not call 911.
Evidence and Injuries
Medical personnel observed bruising on the infant’s jawline and a horizontal mark on her neck. An autopsy determined the cause of death as asphyxia, with signs of cerebral edema and petechiae, indicating possible suffocation or strangulation. The infant also tested positive for 11-carboxy-Delta-8-THC.
Investigators allege Topp admitted holding the pacifier over the baby’s mouth and nose forcefully to quiet her, causing the injuries. Pathology experts concluded the death was “consistent with a purposeful homicide.”
Background and Behavior
Topp’s family reported he often stayed up late playing video games, drinking alcohol, and using drugs. He allegedly smoked Delta-8-THC in the room with the infant to calm himself.
Investigation and Arrest
Topp was initially arrested on an involuntary manslaughter charge after a 20-month investigation involving forensic testing, interviews, and search warrants. Additional charges were later filed following evidence and admissions from Topp during questioning and recorded calls.
