Estranged Husband Testifies in Poisonous Mushroom Lunch Murder Trial

Wed Oct 22 2025 05:25:09 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a harrowing trial, Erin Patterson's estranged husband reveals the rare nature of her social gatherings amid allegations of a deadly lunch that killed three relatives.

Simon Patterson provided key testimony in Erin Patterson's murder trial, detailing their tumultuous relationship and the alarming events surrounding a fatal mushroom lunch that left three family members dead. The court is scrutinizing whether Erin Patterson intended to poison her guests.

In a deeply unsettling trial unfolding in Morwell, Australia, Simon Patterson, the estranged husband of Erin Patterson, took the stand to recount the events surrounding a deadly lunch that allegedly involved poisonous mushrooms. Erin Patterson, who has pleaded not guilty, is charged with the murder of three family members and attempted murder of another, which occurred during a beef wellington meal she hosted in July 2023.

Mr. Patterson testified that it was highly unusual for Erin to invite family members for social gatherings, adding that he felt "too uncomfortable" to attend the lunch at the last minute. The prosecution contends that Erin Patterson invited her relatives under the pretext of having been diagnosed with cancer, motivating the gathering. Tragically, the meal left Don and Gail Patterson, both 70, and Gail's sister, Heather Wilkinson, 66, dead shortly after, while local pastor Ian Wilkinson survived after significant medical attention.

The trial revealed text exchanges between Simon and Erin that hinted at her preparations for the gathering. Simon described Erin as intelligent and capable; however, their marital relationship was marked by repeated separations since their marriage in 2007. The couple had initially shared a strong bond, but tensions arose in 2022 over personal matters, including tax returns.

Dramatic courtroom moments ensued as Mr. Patterson recounted the distressing aftermath of the meal. After learning about the guests' severe illnesses, he drove the Wilkinsons to the hospital, painting a haunting image of their condition. His testimony suggested Erin may have had motivations that were more complex, as the court considers evidence about her movements before and after the fatal lunch, including alleged attempts to conceal her actions.

The unfolding drama continues, as Simon Patterson is expected to return to the stand for additional questioning, shedding further light on a case that has captivated and horrified the community. The crucial fact under trial is whether Erin Patterson intended to harm her guests or if the tragedy was a result of a horrific accident.