A father who had been on the run with his three children for nearly four years was killed during a police confrontation in New Zealand on Monday. This incident marked the end of a high-profile search for the family.
Tom Phillips disappeared into the wilds of Waikato just before Christmas 2021 after a disagreement with the children’s mother, who had full custody. According to police, Phillips was shot during a burglary attempt at a supply store, accompanied by one of his children. He died at the scene, but his children—Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12—were safely found and are now in protective care.
“This is an emotional turn of events. Knowing the children are safe after almost four years is a huge relief,” said Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers. “We are thankful that the torment for the children’s family has come to an end.”
Police received a call about a possible break-in early Monday morning in Piopio, a small town where Phillips was believed to be hiding. When they spotted two individuals on a quad bike nearby, they suspected Phillips was involved and set up road spikes to stop them.
During the encounter, Phillips allegedly fired at the police, injuring one officer before police returned fire, resulting in Phillips’ death. The child with him was unharmed and taken into custody, while the injured officer was rushed to a hospital.
Later in the day, police found the remaining two children at a makeshift campsite about a mile away, both safe and unharmed. Authorities had expressed worry about the children’s well-being during their time in hiding, stating they had no access to formal education or medical care.
Despite numerous reported sightings over the years, the police had difficulty locating the family. Phillips was already facing several serious charges prior to the incident, including robbery and illegal possession of a firearm. Investigators found multiple firearms at the scene, including the gun used in the shooting. Surveillance footage also revealed an earlier burglary attempt by Phillips.
The children’s mother, Cat, expressed a mix of emotions upon hearing about Phillips’ death. “We are so relieved to know that this ordeal is over for our children,” she said, using the Māori word for children, “tamariki.” “They have been missed every day, and we can’t wait to welcome them back into a loving home.”
She requested privacy as the family begins to heal and adjust after their challenging experience.
