Husband Reveals Rarity of Social Gatherings as Poisonous Mushroom Trial Continues

Wed Oct 22 2025 12:49:07 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Erin Patterson's estranged husband shares insights into their tumultuous relationship during the ongoing trial concerning a fatal mushroom-laden lunch in Victoria, Australia.

Simon Patterson, testifying at the trial of his estranged wife Erin, discussed their rare social gatherings and the chaotic nature of their relationship. Erin stands accused of murdering three family members with toxic mushrooms served during a lunch at her home, while she claims the incident was unintentional and borne out of panic.

The estranged husband of Erin Patterson, the woman accused of serving a deadly poisonous mushroom lunch, testified in court, revealing it was "very rare" for her to host social events. Simon Patterson, who declined an invitation to the fateful lunch a day before it took place, is the first witness in the ongoing trial where Erin faces charges of murder for the deaths of three relatives and attempted murder of another. Erin, who has pleaded not guilty, asserts that she panicked after unintentionally serving poisonous mushrooms to her loved ones.

The jury learned that attendees included Simon’s former in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, both 70, and Gail's sister, Heather Wilkinson, 66, all of whom fell gravely ill following the meal. Local pastor Ian Wilkinson survived after extensive treatment. Simon disclosed text exchanges with Erin prior to the lunch, in which she expressed her disappointment at his decision not to attend.

Prosecutors argue that Erin invited guests under false pretenses, claiming a cancer diagnosis, to gather them at the lunch. Simon described their complex relationship spanning multiple separations and reconciliations, highlighting the emotional turbulence over the years. While he noted Erin's intelligence and wit, he also recounted a pivotal moment in 2022 that soured their communication.

In court, Simon revealed Erin received a significant inheritance estimated at A$2 million but described the payments as fragmented. He noted the lack of dispute surrounding the fatal meal’s ingredients containing death cap mushrooms, emphasizing that the focus of the trial would be Erin's intent.

The court was also informed of Erin's alleged actions to conceal her involvement, including lying about the source of the mushrooms and disposing of a food dehydrator used in the ill-fated meal.

During Simon's harrowing account, he described the chaotic scene he witnessed after the lunch when he visited his ailing relatives. He recounted the distressing condition of his parents, detailing his father's significant suffering and highlighting an unsettling detail about Erin serving herself on a differently colored plate. As Simon recalled these moments, his emotions were palpable, further underscoring the tragic implications of the case that continues to unfold in the courtroom.