Poison Pudding Problems - Columbus, Indiana
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The 'Poison Pudding Problems' episode of *Small Town Murder* unfolds a chilling true crime story centered on the 2007 murder of Alan Duvall, a 61-year-old former Navy man and jewelry salesman from Columbus, Indiana, by his wife, Tammy Engelman Duvall. Initially ruled an accidental death due to alcohol poisoning and heat exhaustion, the case took a dark turn when Tammy immediately demanded same-day cremation—a red flag that prompted detective Mark Crutchin to launch a homicide investigation. The autopsy revealed a lethal morphine overdose—over 100 times the therapeutic dose—alongside high levels of Flexeril and alcohol, with chocolate dirt pudding found in Alan’s stomach. This, combined with Tammy’s financial desperation, inconsistent statements, and her history as a CNA with access to prescription drugs, painted a damning picture. Evidence emerged that she had previously attempted to poison her ex-boyfriend Stephen Brown with a morphine-laced pudding, demonstrating a pattern of behavior. Her motive was clear: a $100,000 life insurance policy with herself as the sole beneficiary. Despite her defense claiming suicide and lack of direct evidence, the jury convicted her on murder, insurance fraud, and obstruction charges, sentencing her to 60.5 years in prison. The episode ends with a haunting reflection on how Tammy’s chilling quote during a crime show—'Doing it wrong. That ain't it at all'—suggests she studied murder methods, underscoring the calculated nature of her crime. The narrative blends forensic detail, psychological insight, and dark humor, while also celebrating the podcast’s dedicated Patreon community through heartfelt shout-outs and promotions for the 2026 live tour, which features sold-out shows and growing fan engagement across the U.S.
Immediate cremation requests after a death are a major red flag and should prompt a deeper investigation.
A toxicology report showing a lethal morphine dose (100x therapeutic level) is definitive evidence of foul play.
The presence of a suspect’s signature food (e.g., chocolate dirt pudding) in the victim’s stomach can be a critical forensic clue.
Financial desperation and marital conflict are common motives in domestic murders, especially when life insurance is involved.
A spouse with medical training (e.g., CNA) can weaponize their knowledge to administer poison covertly.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Columbus, Indiana: The Athens of the Prairie
The hosts introduce Columbus, Indiana—its quirky nickname, history, demographics, and reputation. They mock the town’s over-the-top motto 'unexpected, unforgettable' and critique its lack of nightlife and dated date culture. Despite a growing population and low cost of living, the town struggles with high property crime and a stagnant economy. The hosts set the stage with humor and skepticism, hinting that beneath the small-town charm lies something darker.
Alan Duvall: The Life of the Party with a Koozie
The hosts paint a vivid portrait of Alan Duvall—charming, active, and always with a beer in hand. A Navy veteran and Corvette enthusiast, he’s described as a fun-loving, socially adept man who loved basketball, family, and his koozie. Despite financial instability and juggling multiple jobs, he maintained a vibrant lifestyle. His sudden marriage to Tammy Engelman, a younger, glamorous CNA, raises eyebrows due to its speed and lack of history. The episode explores the contrast between Alan’s outgoing personality and the growing tension in his marriage.
Tammy Engelman: The Shrewd Woman with a Secret
Tammy is introduced as a stunning, medically enhanced woman with a shopping addiction and a secret bank account. Her ex-husband describes her as a 'shrewd' sociopath, and her friends note her generosity—yet her financial habits suggest a deeper instability. The hosts dissect her motivations, highlighting her affair with Gary Ruddle, her disrespect toward Alan, and her obsession with money. The episode reveals her manipulative nature and growing control over Alan, culminating in her demand for a house and her refusal to let him drink.
The Lethal Dose: Morphine Overdose Confirmed
“That's so much. Period. Yeah. So the pathologist confirms that Alan died of a morphine overdose.”
Tammy’s Shifting Stories and the Poison Pudding Trail
“She said, well, what kind of drugs? And she said, I think possibly cocaine. In my estimation, he's been real high. That's right.”
“Come see us. The live shows are spectacular. Come join all of the other STM people. You're going to meet so many people. You're going to have fun.”
“That ain't it at all.”
“That's so much. Period. Yeah. So the pathologist confirms that Alan died of a morphine overdose.”
Hosts
Alan Duvall
person
Tammy Engelman
person
tammy duvall
person
Small Town Murder
media
Columbus, Indiana
place
Flexeril
product
Gary Ruddle
person
2026 Tour
other
roxxanol
product
Jimmy
person
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