A vehicle linked to convicted Australian murderer Erin Patterson was briefly advertised for sale on Facebook before being removed. Patterson, who received a life sentence for killing three relatives and attempting to poison another with a toxic beef Wellington, had her red 2023 MG SUV listed on Melbourne’s Facebook Marketplace for AUD18,500 (£9,037). The ad, posted by Ali Prior, Patterson’s power of attorney, described the car as in excellent condition with low mileage.
Prior clarified that she had the legal authority to sell the car and stated that the sale was not related to Patterson’s criminal case. Despite this, the advertisement has been taken down. During the trial, CCTV footage showed Patterson disposing of evidence related to the crime.
On September 8, Patterson was sentenced to life imprisonment without parole for a minimum of 33 years. The judge described her actions as the most severe form of criminal behavior. Patterson’s victims included her in-laws and their sister, who died after consuming the poisoned meal. Her attempted murder survivor has since suffered health complications.
Patterson, a mother of two, maintains her innocence, claiming the mushrooms were accidentally added to the dish. She was handed multiple life sentences for the murders and a 25-year term for the attempted murder. The sentencing judge emphasized the immense harm caused by Patterson’s actions and the betrayal of trust within her own family.
Despite a forgiveness offer from one survivor, the impact of Patterson’s crimes on the victims’ loved ones was profound, with feelings of betrayal and loss dominating their statements. The ongoing legal proceedings have highlighted the tragic consequences of Patterson’s actions on multiple families.