A father, identified as Tom Phillips, was shot dead during a confrontation with police in New Zealand on Monday. The incident occurred while authorities were responding to reports of a burglary at a rural supply store in Piopio, located in the Waikato region. Phillips had been on the run with his three children for four years, evading capture in the country’s remote wilderness.
Phillips disappeared into the wild with his children—Ember (9), Maverick (10), and Jayda (12)—just before Christmas in 2021, following a dispute with their mother, who had sole custody. For years, their whereabouts remained unknown until they were spotted in October 2024 by a group of pig hunters. Reports indicated that the children were seen wearing masks and carrying heavy backpacks as Phillips guided them through the forest.
Police received a call around 02:30 local time regarding a burglary in Piopio. According to Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers, officers were informed about two individuals on a quad bike dressed in farm clothing and using headlamps. Phillips had previously come to the attention of law enforcement for stealing a quad bike and camping supplies, including headlamps.
As police laid spikes to stop the fleeing quad bike, the driver lost control and crashed. Upon stopping, Phillips allegedly opened fire at officers from close range. They returned fire, resulting in Phillips being killed at the scene. Despite attempts to administer first aid, it was too late. One officer suffered critical injuries from gunfire but was transported to a hospital for surgery.
At the scene, authorities also located one of the children alongside a cache of firearms, but the whereabouts of the other two children remain unknown. Police are working to ensure the safety of the child found, who is receiving support. “This has been a deeply traumatic incident this morning for those involved,” Rogers stated.
The children’s mother, known only as Cat, expressed relief at the prospect of reuniting with her family but voiced sadness over the violent outcome of the situation. “Our hope has always been that the children could be returned in a peaceful and safe way for everyone involved,” she said in a statement to RNZ. She urged for privacy as they navigate the difficult process of adjusting to a safe environment after such a prolonged ordeal.
Authorities faced significant obstacles in their efforts to locate Phillips and the children due to the challenging terrain of the Waikato landscape. This included dense forests and expansive farmland, complicating search efforts. Over the years, New Zealand law enforcement had offered rewards for information leading to Phillips’ arrest, but these initiatives often resulted in leads that quickly went cold.
The incident underscores the complexities and dangers involved in the search for a fugitive with children in tow. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring the well-being of the children and providing them with the necessary support during this critical time.
