The trial of Erin Patterson, accused over a deadly family lunch in regional Victoria, begins today.
The 50-year-old is facing three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder, after allegedly serving a beef Wellington meal laced with poisonous mushrooms at her home in Leongatha.
Timeline of events
The lunch on July 29, 2023, claimed the lives of Patterson’s former in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, and Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson.
Heather’s husband, Ian Wilkinson, survived after spending several weeks in hospital fighting for his life.
In the days that followed, Victoria Police launched a homicide investigation. Detectives seized a food dehydrator, searched through waste bins, and interviewed other family members.
Patterson was charged in November, following months of investigation.
The trial is being held at the Supreme Court’s Morwell location, drawing media, legal teams and large crowds to the regional town.
Accommodation in Morwell has been fully booked out, with authorities increasing security around the courthouse.
Criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro told 1News the case has captured attention both nationally and internationally because of the "alleged nature of the killings".
"It involves family members, allegations of poisoning, and three deaths. It’s very unusual and cases involving poison have historically drawn intrigue for centuries," he said.
Before evidence can be heard, a jury must be selected. Potential jurors' names are drawn randomly from a ballot, with lawyers on both sides able to object, until a final panel of 12, plus reserves, is sworn in.
Watson-Munro explained the importance of having reserve jurors.
"Having more than the required number of jurors is a form of insurance," he said. "People can fall ill, or life events can derail a trial, so having reserves ensures the process can continue."
Patterson has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains her innocence.
Opening statements are expected to begin tomorrow, with the trial set down to run for several weeks.
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