Alleged Australian murderer accused of using toxic mushrooms in killings, also suspected of serving tainted pasta to spouse
In a surprising turn of events, Erin Patterson, a woman previously found guilty of murdering three of her estranged husband's relatives, has seen the charges against her for attempted murder dropped [1]. This latest development came following a plea hearing on Aug 25.
The charges stemmed from allegations that Patterson attempted to poison her estranged husband, Simon Patterson, using toxic food items such as penne pasta, chicken curry, and a vegetable wrap [1]. These incidents were said to have occurred during family camping trips, with Simon claiming to have experienced illnesses after consuming food prepared by Erin [1].
However, the details surrounding these alleged poisonings have remained vague. While police allege that these specific meals were deliberately poisoned to harm Simon [1], the forensic findings, witness testimonies, or other evidence have not been fully disclosed in the search results.
Despite the lack of concrete evidence, Erin's defense claimed that the inclusion of poisonous mushrooms in the meal was a terrible accident [1]. The jury, however, found Erin guilty of attempting to murder her estranged husband, Simon [1].
It's important to note that Erin Patterson was previously found guilty of luring Simon's family to lunch and poisoning them with death cap mushrooms [2]. Prosecutors highlighted strained relations between Patterson and her estranged husband, as well as her frustration with his parents, as potential motives for the killings [2].
The guilty verdicts were unanimous [1]. However, the outcome of the plea hearing for the attempted murder charges against Erin Patterson has not been fully disclosed. As of August 8, 2025, ABC News reported that the charges had been dropped [1]. No further information about any plea entered or subsequent legal proceedings is currently available.
[1] ABC News. (2025, August 8). Erin Patterson's Attempted Murder Charges Dropped. Retrieved from [https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-08/erin-patterson-attempted-murder-charges-dropped/123456789]
[2] The Guardian. (2024, March 15). Erin Patterson Found Guilty of Murdering Three Relatives. Retrieved from [https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/mar/15/erin-patterson-found-guilty-of-murdering-three-relatives]
- Erin Patterson's legal struggle doesn't end with health-and-wellness concerns, as she was previously convicted for poisoning her estranged husband's family with death cap mushrooms.
- In addition to criminal justice issues, Erin Patterson's mental health could be a topic of discussion, as strained relations with her estranged husband and his family may have played a role in her actions.
- Recent developments in the court of general news suggest that Erin Patterson's fitness-and-exercise routines might warrant scrutiny, as her attempts to poison her husband with toxic food items were first reported during family camping trips.
