A burglary investigation in Freetown, Indiana, has led to murder charges against a mother and daughter accused of killing a man by poisoning his root beer float.

The Jackson County Sheriff's Department initially responded to reports of a break-in at the home of Marsha Allen, nearly a year after her husband Harold Allen had died. The investigation into the burglary uncovered evidence pointing to a more serious crime.

Authorities now allege that Marsha Allen and her daughter, Ashley Jones, conspired to poison Harold Allen's root beer float, resulting in his death. The case involves evidence including thousands of text messages and materials related to poisons.

According to investigators, the burglar who broke into Allen's home claimed that Jones was behind the break-in. This allegation led authorities to examine the circumstances surrounding Harold Allen's earlier death more closely.

The case has revealed additional allegations, including claims that one of the defendants attempted to arrange an attack on a close friend. The investigation has expanded beyond the original burglary report to encompass the alleged murder plot.

Both women now face charges related to Harold Allen's death. The case highlights how what appeared to be a routine property crime investigation evolved into a complex murder case involving allegations of poisoning and conspiracy.