Overview

• Erin Patterson is on trial for three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder after allegedly serving death cap mushroom–laced beef Wellington to her former in-laws and their relatives in July 2023.
• Jurors reviewed video statements from Patterson’s children, who described eating leftovers from the meal with mushrooms scraped off, and noted their mother appeared unwell but not as severely ill as the guests.
• Medical testimony from nurse Cindy Munro highlighted a contrast in Patterson’s symptoms compared to the poisoned guests, raising questions about her level of exposure to the toxin.
• The prosecution argues Patterson deliberately poisoned the meal, while the defense claims it was a tragic accident and that Patterson panicked after realizing the consequences.
• If convicted, Patterson faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment for the murder charges and up to 25 years for attempted murder.