Ridiculous History The Chicago Tylenol Murders
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Nov 25, 2025 Dive into the chilling 1982 Tylenol murders that sent shockwaves through Chicago. The hosts explore the origins of Tylenol and the panic ignited by poisonings linked to tampered bottles. Discover the swift actions taken by Johnson & Johnson in crisis management, including a costly recall. Learn about suspects like James Lewis and his extended criminal history. The podcast highlights the lasting impact of these events on packaging regulations and public safety in the pharmaceutical industry.
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Product Tampering Caused Deadly Panic
- The 1982 Chicago deaths were caused by extra-strength Tylenol capsules deliberately laced with potassium cyanide.
- The tampering happened after products left factories, sparking nationwide panic and investigation.
First Victim Sparks Investigation
- Mary Kellerman, 12, took extra-strength Tylenol and died in Elk Grove Village on September 29, 1982.
- Other victims in the days after showed a pattern that linked multiple sudden deaths to Tylenol use.
Bold Recall Became Crisis PR Model
- Johnson & Johnson immediately coordinated with FDA and launched a nationwide recall of ~31 million bottles.
- Their open, public crisis response is cited as a model in crisis communications.
