They Poisoned His Root Beer Float & ALMOST Got Away With It: The Case of Harold Allen
Digest
This podcast delves into the tragic murder of Harold Allen, a loving husband and stepfather, who was found dead in December 2022. Initially considered a tragic accident, the investigation revealed a sinister plot orchestrated by his wife, Marsha, and stepdaughter, Ashley. The investigation began nine months after Harold's death when a burglary at his home led to the discovery of incriminating evidence. One of the burglars, Stephen White, revealed that Ashley and Marsha had poisoned Harold. The podcast details the various poisoning attempts, including the use of foxglove seeds, pong pong seeds, and ultimately ethylene glycol (antifreeze). The podcast highlights the text messages and emails detailing the poisoning attempts, leading to Ashley's arrest. Marsha was later found dead by suicide. The episode also explores the possibility that Ashley may have been involved in the death of her previous husband, Tyerson, who died under suspicious circumstances. The podcast concludes with a discussion about the tragic nature of Harold's death and the hope that justice will be served. The host also expresses sympathy for Harold's family and highlights the importance of supporting organizations like the International Bluegrass Music Association, which Harold would have appreciated.
Outlines
The Murder of Harold Allen
This chapter introduces Harold Allen, a loving husband and stepfather, who was found dead in December 2022. While his death was initially considered a tragedy, it was later revealed to be a murder orchestrated by his wife, Marsha, and stepdaughter, Ashley.
The Unfolding of a Murder Plot
The investigation into Harold's death began nine months after his passing when a burglary at his home led to the discovery of incriminating evidence. Stephen White, one of the burglars, revealed that Ashley and Marsha had poisoned Harold.
The Poisoning Attempts
This chapter delves into the details of the poisoning attempts, revealing that Ashley and Marsha used various toxic substances, including foxglove seeds and pong pong seeds, to try and kill Harold. Their attempts were unsuccessful, but they continued to plot his demise.
The Final Poisoning Attempt
This chapter focuses on the final poisoning attempt, where Ashley ordered ethylene glycol (antifreeze) and used it to poison Harold's root beer float. This ultimately led to his death.
The Investigation and Aftermath
The police investigation uncovered the text messages and emails detailing the poisoning attempts, leading to Ashley's arrest. Marsha was later found dead by suicide.
Keywords
Ethylene Glycol
Ethylene glycol, commonly known as antifreeze, is a highly toxic chemical used in automotive cooling systems. It is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid that can be fatal if ingested.
Foxglove
Foxglove is a flowering plant known for its beautiful purple flowers. However, all parts of the plant are highly toxic, containing cardiac glycosides that can cause heart problems and even death.
Pong Pong Seeds
Pong pong seeds, also known as suicide tree seeds, are highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested. They contain a potent toxin that affects the nervous system and can cause severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
Felony Murder
Felony murder is a legal doctrine that holds a person liable for murder if a death occurs during the commission of a felony, even if the death was unintentional.
Product Tampering
Product tampering refers to the deliberate alteration or contamination of a product with the intent to harm or deceive consumers. It is a serious crime that can result in severe penalties.
Bluegrass Music
Bluegrass music is a genre of American roots music that originated in the Appalachian region. It is characterized by its use of acoustic instruments, such as the banjo, guitar, and fiddle, and its fast-paced, energetic melodies.
Q&A
What led to the discovery of Harold Allen's murder?
A burglary at Harold's home nine months after his death led to the discovery of incriminating evidence that revealed his wife and stepdaughter had poisoned him.
What types of poison did Ashley and Marsha use to try and kill Harold?
They used various toxic substances, including foxglove seeds, pong pong seeds, and ultimately ethylene glycol (antifreeze).
What was the motive behind Ashley and Marsha's attempt to kill Harold?
Based on text messages, it appears they were motivated by greed, wanting to inherit Harold's money.
What charges is Ashley facing?
Ashley is facing charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, product tampering, and attempted murder.
What is the status of the case?
Ashley's trial is scheduled for January 2025. Marsha is deceased, having died by suicide.
Show Notes
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