Erin Patterson’s Poison Mushroom Murder Case: Victims’ Families Speak in Court

On August 25, 2025, the Victoria Supreme Court held a pre-sentencing hearing for Erin Patterson. Several victim family members gave statements describing the real impact on their families, including disruptions to daily life, psychological stress, and financial burdens.

Survivor Ian Wilkinson explained that after losing his wife Heather, his family life and financial arrangements were affected. He noted that although his children are adults, they still had to bear medical expenses arising from Erin’s actions, placing additional economic pressure on them and affecting overall family functioning.

Victim Don’s son Simon Patterson discussed his own situation and that of his minor children. He explained that the children not only lost their grandparents and support system, but also had to cope with the fact that their mother is a murderer, creating long-term psychological and daily life challenges.

These testimonies, including changes to family structure, increased daily burdens, psychological stress on minors, and economic pressures on adult relatives due to medical costs, will be taken into account by the court for sentencing.