Just one day after he legally changed his name and a month after proclaiming himself a “real father” in an emotional Facebook post, 23-year-old Brian Moser (formerly Terry Michael Smith III) is behind bars — charged in connection with the tragic death of a 2-year-old child.
At 9:08 a.m. on July 1st, first responders were called to the Timber Ridge Apartments in West Union for an unresponsive toddler. Deputies with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and EMTs from West Union Fire and EMS arrived to find the child not breathing. Despite lifesaving efforts, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
The body was transported to Montgomery County for an autopsy. The cause of death remains under investigation, but the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations is actively involved, along with local authorities.
Shortly after, officers arrested Brian Moser (aka Terry Smith III) and 25-year-old Tien Hawkins — both booked into the Adams County Jail on child endangerment charges. Hawkins is believed to be the child’s mother.
💔 A Chilling Contrast: The Facebook Post
Just weeks ago, Moser posted a lengthy, heartfelt tribute on Facebook alongside a picture of himself with three small children — including what appears to be the toddler now deceased. The message, now haunting in hindsight, reads like the promise of a devoted stepfather determined to “break the cycle.”
“I didn’t step into their lives to half-ass fatherhood… I’m the one who shows up every single day, builds them up, protects their peace, and teaches them what real love looks like.”
“He wanted a family so he could do less. I wanted a family so I could give more… I’m the man in this house. I’m the one who stays.”
Even more chilling? Moser officially changed his name on June 30th, just one day before the toddler’s death — a detail that raises serious questions investigators are now working to untangle.
🧸 WHO IS TIEN HAWKINS?
According to her public Facebook profile, Hawkins is a local restaurant manager, a mother of multiple children, and was engaged to Moser. Her page includes photos of her children and happy family scenes — a stark contrast to the charges she now faces.
⚠️ The Reality of Child Endangerment
This case joins a tragic list of incidents across the country involving children left in the care of adults who profess love and protection online — but whose actions behind closed doors tell another story.
Child endangerment in Ohio is a serious felony that can escalate depending on the harm involved. If the autopsy reveals further signs of abuse or neglect, the charges could be upgraded.
🛡️ How to Protect Children from Harm
If you suspect a child is in danger or being neglected, don’t wait:
- 📞 Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger.
- 📲 Report concerns to Children Services — it can be anonymous.
- 🧠 Trust your instincts — too many tragedies begin with warning signs brushed aside.
This heartbreaking case serves as a grim reminder: Words on social media mean nothing without action. Real love shows up in consistency, safety, and protection — not just Facebook tributes and pretty promises.
The little girl is gone. But the truth behind what happened in that apartment is just beginning to unfold.
