Erin Patterson, a single mother from regional Victoria, has gained international attention as the central figure in a high-profile trial concerning the deaths of her in-laws. The case revolves around her actions during a lunch that led to three murder charges and one of attempted murder. With a background that contrasts starkly with the typical image of a murderer, many are left questioning how this woman came to commit such acts.
Erin has two children, a son born in 2009 and a daughter born in 2014, who were living with her until her arrest in November 2023. She was separated from her husband, Simon Patterson, with whom she shares a complicated history; they married in 2007, had a turbulent relationship, but maintained an amicable co-parenting dynamic even after their permanent split in 2015.
Before the tragic events of July 2023, Erin described herself as a “fundamental atheist” who experienced a transformation to Christianity. Struggling with low self-esteem, she had considered undergoing gastric bypass surgery due to weight gain. At the time of the incident, Erin was not employed but had deferred her nursing and midwifery studies, stating her financial circumstances allowed her to focus on education without the need for a job.
Erin inherited approximately $2 million from her grandmother’s estate in 2006, a significant amount that had been disbursed gradually over eight years. She was known to support Simon’s family financially, including loans for property development. Erin owned two homes, one in Melbourne and another in Leongatha, where she resided.
The fatal lunch involved her mother-in-law, Gail Patterson, father-in-law, Donald Patterson, along with Gail’s sister and her husband. While the other three tragically lost their lives, Ian Wilkinson, one of the victims, survived. This shocking case raises important questions about familial relationships, mental health, and the complexities of human behaviour, leaving the community and beyond grappling with the surreal nature of the events. As the trial unfolded, Erin’s story moved from the private sphere into the public consciousness, challenging perceptions of crime and the individuals behind it.