There are hopes of a breakthrough in the case of three people being fatally poisoned at a family lunch in Australia after one of the only survivors was released from hospital following a months-long battle.
Ian Wilkinson and his wife Heather attended the gathering in rural Victoria in late July, joining host and chef Erin Patterson and her former in-laws Don and Gail Patterson.
Only Erin Patterson and Ian Wilkinson survived, and now, finally, the latter may be able to shed more light on what happened after being discharged.
The Herald Sun reports that Ian Wilkinson's recovery could lead to a big breakthrough in the case, which is being investigated by a homicide squad. There have been no arrests made in the case yet.
The Wilkinson family said in a statement Ian Wilkison is now going through a period of "transition and healing" and asked for privacy.
"This milestone marks a moment of immense relief and gratitude for Ian and the entire Wilkinson family," they wrote.
"The Wilkinson family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Leongatha, Dandenong and Austin Hospitals for their unwavering dedication and exceptional care that played a pivotal role in Ian's recovery. The medical team's expertise and compassion have been a source of comfort and hope throughout this journey."
The statement said the family was "profoundly grateful" for the outpouring of support, prayers, and well-wishes from the Korumburra community, church, friends, family, and colleagues.
"This collective kindness has been a pillar of strength for Ian and the family, reinforcing the sense of unity and compassion that defines our community."
It's believed death cap mushrooms used in a beef Wellington is the cause of the poisoning.
Erin Patterson, who made the lunch, has denied deliberately feeding the toxic fungi to her guests, claiming she bought them from an Asian grocery store. However, according to ABC, she was unable to provide further details about where she purchased the dried mushrooms from and there have been no warnings or recalls for produce in the area.
Newshub.
