An Australian woman has been charged with murder and drug offences in connection with a suspected poisoning that authorities believe has killed four people who consumed death cap mushrooms. The deaths, and the subsequent charges, are a tragic reminder of the lethal potential of death cap mushrooms. These mushrooms are not easily distinguishable from edible mushrooms and can lead to fatal consequences when ingested. The woman, who is from Sydney’s northern suburb of Neutral Bay, has been charged with four counts of murder, one count of using poison with intent to endanger life, three counts of cultivating and possessing certain plants, and one count of drug possession. Police believe the woman may have collected death cap mushrooms from the local area and then either supplied them, or made dishes with them, to unsuspecting victims. According to authorities, two of the victims had eaten a mushroom dish prepared by the woman at her home. The death cap mushroom is the most dangerous type of mushroom in the world, containing high levels of toxins that cause severe organ damage and, if not treated in time, can be fatal. Symptoms of poisoning by death cap mushrooms appear approximately 12 to 24 hours after ingestion, and are accompanied by stomach pains, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If medical attention is not sought, liver and kidney failure can occur. Fortunately, due to effective research and education, the number of cases of poisoning by death cap mushrooms has decreased significantly in Australia and other parts of the world over the years. However, the tragic case of this Australian woman serves as a reminder of the need for continued awareness regarding the risks associated with consuming wild mushrooms.