Erin Patterson, the woman at the centre of the mushroom lunch that left three people dead, has been charged with murder.
The 49-year-old woman was arrested on Thursday morning, more than three months after the fateful meal.
She has been charged with three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder.
Patterson was charged with three additional attempted murder charges relating to three separate incidents in Victoria in 2021 and 2022. Victoria Police allege a 48-year-old Korumburra man became ill following meals on these dates.
Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said: “Today’s charges are just the next step in what has been an incredibly complex, methodical and thorough investigation by Homicide Squad detectives.
“I know that people will no doubt have many unanswered questions about this matter, however I urge people to be especially mindful of unnecessary speculation and not sharing misinformation.
“Our thoughts today are with the families of those impacted and we will continue to ensure they are provided with all the necessary support they need.”
Earlier today, according to a Victoria Police press release, homicide detectives arrested Patterson shortly after 8am Thursday morning in relation to the mushroom lunch investigation.
On July 30, four people were taken to hospital following a meal of beef Wellington at Patterson’s Leongatha home the day before.
During a live press conference on Thursday after Patterson’s arrest, Inspector Thomas acknowledged that three of the four people –Heather Wilkinson, 66, Gail Patterson, 70, and Don Patterson, 70 – passed away in hospital. Ian Wilkinson, 68, was released from hospital in September and it is understood that he “continues to recover”.
Before concluding the press conference, Inspector Thomas reminded the media and public to be mindful of the discourse surrounding the case.
“Over the last three months, this investigation has been subject to incredibly intense levels of public scrutiny and curiosity. I cannot think of another investigation that has generated this level of media and public interest not only here in Victoria but nationally and internationally,” he said.
“I think its particularly important that we keep in mind that at the heart of this, three people have lost their lives.”
Patterson is expected to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning.
More info to come.
