Erin Patterson to claim mushroom poisonings accidental as murder trial begins
GuardianMAY 11
Australian Woman Faces Trial in Poisonous Mushroom Lunch Case
Above: (L-R) Barrister Sophie Stafford, Lawyer Bill Doogue, Lawyer Ophelia Holloway, and Barrister Colin Mandy SC arrive at Latrobe Valley Magistrates' Court in Morwell, South-Eastern Victoria, Australia, on April 30, 2025. Image copyright: Martin Keep/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
With overwhelming evidence against her, from the basic fact that she served poisonous mushrooms on specific plates to inviting her ex-in-laws under false pretenses, Patterson is likely guilty. What is one of the most absurd crime stories you could hear about is also a tragedy — one that will hopefully result in punishment for the killer and justice for the victims.
Narrative B
While there's certainly evidence against Patterson, a defendant on trial always deserves innocence until guilt is proven, especially when she explicitly says her actions were an accident. Her defense will continue to make this case until the trial is over and the jury comes to a final verdict.