The Victorian Supreme Court has released footage of Erin Patterson, the mother charged with the murder of three individuals following a fatal mushroom lunch, being interviewed by police. This occurred shortly after her guests, Gail Patterson and Heather Wilkinson, succumbed to their illnesses, with Don Patterson’s death following soon after.
Patterson was questioned at the Wonthaggi police station on August 5, 2023, after authorities conducted a search of her home in Leongatha and collected potential evidence. During the police interview with Detective Leading Senior Constable Steven Eppingstall, the focus was on understanding why Patterson, who hosted the lunch, remained unscathed while her guests fell gravely ill.
In response to inquiries about the incident, Patterson expressed her willingness to assist health officials, asserting she had provided all necessary information regarding the food consumed at the lunch. She emphasized her unfamiliarity with such an extreme situation, indicating her cooperation was intended to clarify the events that transpired.
The detective also inquired about Patterson’s choice to host her estranged husband’s family, to which she replied that they represented her only remaining support network. She described her fondness for them, acknowledging their ongoing emotional support despite her separation from Simon Patterson. She highlighted the importance of maintaining these relationships for the sake of her children, insisting that they are the only family left for her and her kids.
However, during the interview, Patterson also stated that she had “never” foraged for mushrooms. This claim contrasts with her subsequent admission in court, where she acknowledged previous experiences foraging for them.
The release of the interview coincided with the disclosure of previously suppressed evidence from the trial, including grave allegations suggesting that Patterson poisoned her husband with contaminated food, such as toxic pasta and cookies laced with rat poison and antifreeze. Justice Christopher Beale ruled in favour of releasing the interview, dismissing Patterson’s legal team’s objections to making the footage public.
The investigation continues to draw significant public interest as new revelations emerge, with Patterson’s narrative and the evidence against her central to the unfolding case.
For viewers interested in the details, the full police interview has been made available for public viewing.