Erin Patterson Trial: Accused 'Mushroom Cook' Grilled on Day 26

Morwell, Gippsland, Australia – The trial of Erin Patterson, accused of poisoning her in-laws with death cap mushrooms, continues. Day 26 saw Patterson back in the witness box, facing intense questioning about discrepancies in her earlier police statements. "Yesterday, Ms. Patterson told the court she invited her in-laws for lunch because of a growing distance between them," reported Anna Houlahan, a national crime reporter covering the trial for Australian Community Media. The court has heard about Patterson's complex relationship with her estranged husband, Simon, and her bond with his parents. The charges against Patterson stem from the deaths of Don and Gail Patterson and Heather Wilkinson in August 2023, weeks after they shared a meal prepared by Patterson. Ian Wilkinson, Heather's husband, survived. The trial is expected to continue for several more weeks, with further testimony and evidence to be presented.