In a murder trial in Victoria, the jury has heard about the deteriorating relationship between Erin and Simon Patterson, where issues over child support payments led to deepening rifts. Erin Patterson is charged with murdering Simon’s parents, Don and Gail Patterson, and his aunt Heather Wilkinson, as well as attempting to murder Ian Wilkinson, Simon’s uncle, through a lunch filled with poisoned beef wellingtons.
Severing ties over child support and a misdirected tax return listing led Simon to cancel his attendance at what was meant to be a special meal prepared by Erin. Before he could change his mind, Erin expressed her disappointment and the effort she put into the lunch which included costing her a “small fortune” in high-quality ingredients.
Simon testified emotionally, detailing the final lunch invitation and the subsequent discovery of his father’s greatly weakened state post-lunch. He also highlighted the strong bond Erin had with his parents, particularly his father, Don, describing a mutual affection and respect.
Patterson’s lawyer, Colin Mandy SC, argued that any poisoning was unintentional. Court attentions were drawn to the lack of a specific motive behind this alleged act, crafted against the backdrop of a fractured couple’s history culminating in a potentially fatal lunch.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/01/erin-patterson-husband-simon-mushroom-lunch-murder-trial-australia-ntwnfb
