A homicide investigation has been launched into the deaths of three people who suddenly became ill after eating mushrooms at a lunch in rural Australia.
Couples Ian and Heather Wilkinson, and Don and Gail Patterson ate lunch with friends however they were not aware that the food they were eating consisted of poisonous mushrooms.
Police told 9News the two couples were dining at their home in Leongatha, almost two hours south-east of Melbourne.
The four adults suddenly became ill and went to the hospital with what they believed were symptoms of gastro.
However, according to 9News their conditions deteriorated.
South Gippsland Mayor Nathan Hersey spoke with 9News of the significant loss to the community.
“Many people in our community are grieving the loss of three very important, much loved and very well respected in our community,” Hersey said.
“We are just hoping for a really good outcome.”
Ian Wilkinson remains in hospital fighting for his life.
