The trial of Erin Patterson, accused of serving a poisonous mushroom-laden meal that resulted in the deaths of her in-laws, continues with a focus on her movements leading up to the incident. The jury is examining phone records over a second day, which indicate that Patterson’s mobile device was detected near areas known for death cap mushrooms in May 2023.
Digital forensic specialist Dr. Matthew Sorrell, who is testifying, revealed that on May 22, 2023, Patterson’s phone pinged close to the Gippsland towns of Outtrim and Loch. Allegations against her state that on July 29, 2023, she intentionally poisoned her in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, along with Gail’s sister, Heather Wilkinson, by including the lethal mushrooms in a beef Wellington. While Heather’s husband Ian consumed the meal and survived, Patterson faces charges of attempted murder in his case.
Despite these serious accusations, Patterson has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently standing trial at the Victorian Supreme Court in Morwell. Evidence presented to the jury included a post made on the iNaturalist website on May 21, describing the discovery of death cap mushrooms on Neilson Street in Outtrim. Additional data indicated that on April 18, similar mushrooms were located at Loch Recreation Reserve, prompting local resident Christine McKenzie to remove them for safety reasons.
McKenzie testified that she did not revisit the reserve afterward, even though more death caps could have potentially sprouted. Dr. Sorrell’s findings are critical, suggesting that Patterson’s mobile device was in close proximity to mushroom sites, aligning with the timeline leading up to the alleged poisoning.
The forensic expert’s testimony lasted three hours on Monday, and he is expected to face further questioning from Patterson’s legal team. The trial, presided over by Justice Christopher Beale, continues as the investigation into the events surrounding the fatal lunch unfolds further.