Erin Patterson, 49, appeared in the Latrobe Valley Magistrates Court on Friday charged with three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder following a fatal lunch in Leongatha, Victoria, on 29 July. The court heard that police had requested a 20-week adjournment to analyse computer equipment seized from her home, a delay the defence agreed to. Magistrate Tim Walsh expressed frustration at the length of time, noting police had already felt confident enough to charge her with a 'triple murder'. No bail application was made, and Patterson remains in custody.
Court documents reveal Patterson is also accused of attempting to murder her former partner, Simon Patterson, on four occasions between November 2021 and 29 July, when he was not present at the lunch. Additionally, she is charged with attempting to murder Ian Wilkinson, who survived the meal and spent nearly two months in hospital. The deaths of Gail and Don Patterson, both 70, and Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson, 66, occurred after they ate a beef wellington pie containing mushrooms.
Patterson, dressed in a grey jumper, appeared emotionless in the dock, shaking her head when asked if her address should be redacted from the charge sheet. Her lawyer, Bill Doogue, noted the media presence. A committal mention hearing has been set for 3 May, with the possibility of moving the case to Melbourne to avoid delays.
Police Detective Inspector Dean Thomas described the investigation as 'incredibly complex' and noted the intense public scrutiny. He emphasised that three beloved individuals had lost their lives. Patterson has previously denied wrongdoing, stating she was 'devastated' and had 'no reason to hurt these people, whom I loved'.
