Erin Patterson, 50, faces charges of murdering three elderly relatives of her estranged husband by serving them a meal laced with deadly death cap mushrooms in July 2023. The victims include her mother-in-law Gail Patterson, father-in-law Donald Patterson, and Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson, while Heather’s husband Ian Wilkinson survived an attempted murder. Patterson denies the charges, claiming the deaths were a tragic accident, but faces a potential life sentence if convicted.
During her testimony in the ongoing trial at Morwell Magistrates Court, Patterson wept as she was questioned about angry, expletive-filled messages sent to friends about the victims. She expressed regret over the messages, stating she was frustrated with her estranged husband Simon Patterson but insisted that her in-laws were not to blame.
The case has drawn significant media attention across Australia and internationally, with numerous podcasts, journalists, and documentary filmmakers covering the trial. The prosecution rested after a month of presenting evidence, including testimony from family members and forensic experts. Patterson’s testimony marks the defense’s first witness, with the trial continuing.
Swifteradio.com
