Erin Patterson murder trial live: lead detective in Australian mushroom case to continue giving evidence
GuardianMAY 30
Australia Mushroom Murder Trial: Lead Detective Takes the Stand
Above: A memorial plaque on the grave site for Don and Gail Patterson at the Korumburra General Cemetery as the Erin Patterson trial continues on May 13, 2025, in Korumburra, Australia. Image copyright: Asanka Ratnayake/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Erin Patterson's guilt is becoming clearer as the evidence unfolds. Her computer showed visits to websites identifying death cap mushrooms, indicating premeditation; text messages to Gail Patterson about fake medical appointments reveal deceit; and the two phones, likely containing incriminating data, were either uncovered by police or reset post-seizure. This points to deliberate poisoning, not an accident.
Narrative B
The evidence has actually cast some doubt on Patterson's guilt. By not collecting the second phone, the police may have failed to uncover exculpatory evidence. The CCTV footage, which only allegedly shows her son but not her, further weakens the prosecution. Patterson's cooperation, such as providing meal leftovers, suggests transparency, not guilt, pointing to a flawed investigation.