Mushroom Mystery: Jury Deliberates in Gripping Triple Murder Trial

The high-profile trial of Erin Patterson, accused of murdering her in-laws with toxic mushrooms, has reached a critical juncture as the jury begins deliberations. Patterson, who denied deliberate intent, claims an accidental mix-up led to the tragic deaths during a lunch at her home in Leongatha.

Throughout the nine-week trial, prosecutors painted a picture of premeditation, citing that Patterson lied about various elements to cover her tracks, and suggesting a possible motive linked to her strained relationship with her estranged husband and his family.

The defense maintains that Patterson made an honest mistake, driven by panic when questioned by police. The jury, sequestered due to the trial's intense public scrutiny, will decide if Patterson's actions were a fatal accident or a calculated crime.

(With inputs from agencies.)