Family of sole survivor of mushroom lunch speaks
The family of a pastor hospitalised after eating mushrooms in the southeast Victorian town of Leongatha says they remain hopeful he will recover.
The family of a pastor hospitalised after eating mushrooms in the southeast Victorian town of Leongatha says they remain hopeful he will recover.
Ian Wilkinson remains in a critical but stable condition at Austin Hospital in Melbourne as police investigate the deaths of his wife Heather Wilkinson, Gail Patterson and Don Patterson who died after eating fungi that investigators suspect was poisonous.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Austin Hospital for their unwavering care and support during this challenging time,” said Mr Wilkinson’s family statement.
“The expertise, dedication, and compassion of the medical team have been a beacon of hope for us.
“Furthermore, we are deeply moved by the outpouring of kindness, prayers, and support from family, friends and the broader community.”
Police have identified Erin Patterson, the daughter-in-law of the Pattersons, as a potential suspect. She did not fall ill after the fateful lunch.
Detective Inspector Dean Thomas told reporters on August 7 said Ms Patterson was a suspect because “she cooked those meals,” but emphasised it was a “complex case” and “it could be very innocent”.
“We have to keep an open mind,” he said.
Police had seized several items as part of their investigation, including a vegetable dehydrator found dumped at a nearby tip.
Ms Patterson told A Current Affair she was “devastated” about the deaths the Pattersons and Mrs Wilkinson.
“I’m devastated that they’re gone and I hope with every fibre of my being that [Ian] pulls through,“ she said.
“I didn’t do anything. I love them.”
With NCA Newswire
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