Erin Patterson, a mushroom cook, is currently on trial for the alleged poisoning of her lunch guests using death cap mushrooms, as outlined by Crown prosecutor Nanette Rogers SC in the Victorian Supreme Court. Patterson, 50, has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the deaths of her former in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, and Gail’s sister, Heather, who all died after a meal at her home in July 2023. Only Ian Wilkinson, Heather’s husband, survived the lunch.
During her closing address, prosecutor Rogers claimed that Patterson executed “four calculated deceptions.” Firstly, she allegedly fabricated a cancer diagnosis to create a reason for inviting her guests over for lunch. Rogers stated that Patterson had hinted at this lie a month prior, suggesting she was undergoing medical tests related to a lump on her elbow, even though there were no supporting records for a diagnosis.
Secondly, Rogers accused Patterson of conspiring to poison the meal. She claimed that Patterson sourced death cap mushrooms, concealed them in individual beef Wellingtons, and avoided consuming the poisonous fungus herself by altering the dish’s presentation. The prosecutor referred to evidence indicating Patterson’s presence at locations known for these mushrooms, suggesting premeditation in their collection and use.
The third deception involves Patterson feigning illness post-lunch, where she claimed to experience intense digestive issues. Rogers highlighted that despite her complaints, Patterson was able to engage in activities like driving soon after the event. Two days later, she visited a hospital for similar symptoms but left quickly, allegedly aware that she hadn’t eaten the death cap mushrooms.
Finally, the prosecutor suggested that Patterson’s actions leading to the lunch were calculated, implying she believed her guests wouldn’t survive to challenge her narrative. Rogers urged the jury to consider the weight of evidence against Patterson, particularly noting Ian Wilkinson’s testimony as a credible account.
This chilling case continues to unfold, capturing considerable public interest as details emerge.