Major update in killer mushroom case as sole survivor ‘set to be quizzed by cops’ over poison lunch that left three dead
THE sole survivor of a poisonous mushroom lunch that left three dead could be speaking to cops about the fatal meal.
Ian Wilkinson, 68, ate deadly fungi allegedly served by Erin Patterson at her home in Leongatha, Australia, and just left hospital after spending weeks in a coma.
He was one of four guests at the lunch at Erin’s on July 29, with her former in-laws Gail and Don Patterson attending as well as Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson, who was Ian’s wife.
Ian, who is not a suspect in the case, could now help unlock the mystery by telling cops what happened at the horror family meal.
Forensic criminologist Dr Xanthe Mallet told News.com.au police will be “very keen” to talk to the 68-year-old.
“He’s the only one who attended that lunch to survive besides Erin, and he is going to be giving a full account to police as to what happened at that lunch,” she told Sunrise.
“Who ate what, the demeanours and conversations.”
Dr Mallet added that police would also be interested to look at a food dehydrator that Erin Patterson said she used to preserve the mushrooms.
“It’s that dehydrator that potentially cooked the death cap mushrooms that they need to get tested,” she said.
“That’s going to be critical in this case and really the crux is were the death cap mushrooms in that dehydrator or not?”
It comes as Ian’s family confirmed on Saturday he was now making “significant progress” at home after being discharged from Melbourne’s Austin Hospital more than 50 days after the tragedy.
“This milestone marks a moment of immense relief and gratitude for Ian and the entire Wilkinson family,” they said.
“The Wilkinson family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Leongatha, Dandenong and Austin Hospitals for their unwavering dedication and exceptional care that played a pivotal role in Ian’s recovery.
“The medical team’s expertise and compassion have been a source of comfort and hope throughout this journey.”
The family also thanked members of the church and other loved ones in the community.
“This collective kindness has been a pillar of strength for Ian and the family, reinforcing the sense of unity and compassion that defines our community,” they said.