On July 7, 2025, Erin Patterson, a 50-year-old Australian woman from Leongatha, Victoria, was found guilty in Victoria’s Supreme Court of murdering three relatives of her estranged husband by serving them a beef Wellington meal contaminated with lethal death cap mushrooms. The victims—Don and Gail Patterson, along with Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson—died after severe poisoning in July 2023, while a fourth guest survived critical illness and testified at trial. Despite Patterson’s claims that the poisoning was accidental, prosecutors presented evidence of her knowledge and intent, leading to a conviction on three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder after a nine-week trial.
Details of the Crime
Erin Patterson’s conviction stems from a tragic event in July 2023, when three family members fell victim to fatal poisoning after consuming a beef Wellington dish prepared by Patterson. The meal was deliberately contaminated with death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides), known for their high toxicity and potential to cause liver failure and death. The victims—Don Patterson, his wife Gail Patterson, and Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson—succumbed to the poisoning, while a fourth guest, who also consumed the meal, survived but suffered severe illness.
Investigation and Evidence
The investigation revealed forensic evidence linking the death cap mushrooms in the contaminated beef Wellington to Patterson’s actions. Toxicological analysis confirmed the presence of amatoxins, the deadly compounds found in the mushrooms, in the victims’ systems. Further inquiry showed that Patterson had procured the mushrooms and intentionally added them to the dish.
During the trial, prosecutors presented communications and testimonies indicating Patterson’s knowledge of the mushrooms’ lethality. Evidence included purchase receipts, expert witness analysis on the sourcing of the mushrooms, and testimony from the surviving victim, who identified Patterson as the preparer of the contaminated meal.
Trial Proceedings
The trial lasted nine weeks in Victoria’s Supreme Court, drawing significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the familial relationships involved. Patterson maintained throughout the proceedings that the poisoning was unintentional, asserting that she had unknowingly included the poisonous mushrooms in the recipe. However, the jury found the evidence presented by the prosecution compelling, concluding that the act was deliberate.
The court delivered verdicts on three counts of murder corresponding to the three fatalities and an additional count of attempted murder concerning the surviving guest. Sentencing details are pending, with the court expected to issue a formal punishment reflective of the severity of the crimes.
Legal and Public Impact
This case has highlighted the dangers associated with foraged mushrooms and the importance of public awareness about toxic species, especially within domestic settings. Legal experts underscore the rarity and complexity of prosecuting cases involving food poisoning as a method of murder, noting that this case may serve as precedent in similar future cases.
The local community in Leongatha and broader Victoria have responded with shock and sadness at the tragic loss of life. Authorities have reiterated calls for caution when handling wild mushrooms and for increased education on their risks.
The conviction of Erin Patterson marks a somber resolution to a disturbing case of deliberate poisoning that resulted in the deaths of three individuals and severe harm to another. The verdict underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing rare and complex crimes involving toxic substances and reinforces the critical need for public education regarding the dangers of wild mushrooms. As sentencing awaits, the community and legal observers alike are reflecting on the profound implications of this case for safety, justice, and awareness surrounding food-related risks.