New Zealand police have released the first images of a campsite where Tom Phillips reportedly hid with his children for multiple years. This revelation comes after Phillips was fatally shot in a confrontation with the police, which occurred shortly before the children were discovered in Waikato.
The two children were located thanks to the third child who was present during Phillips' confrontation with law enforcement. Authorities confirmed the children are in good spirits but will require time to recuperate from their traumatic experiences.
Phillips vanished shortly before Christmas in 2021 after losing legal custody of his children—Jayda, Maverick, and Ember—ages eight, seven, and five at the time. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers remarked that Phillips exhibited reckless disregard for his children's safety.
The discovery of the children followed a lengthy search that commenced after an attempted burglary was reported in Piopio. During this police response, Phillips engaged in a shootout, injuring a police officer seriously.
As investigations continue, law enforcement aims to understand how Phillips evaded capture for so long and accessed firearms. New Zealand's Ministry for Children indicated that the children's psychological and emotional needs will be prioritized, with assurances that support will be provided for as long as necessary.
Following the children's recovery, their mother expressed relief but also sadness regarding the events leading to the shootout.
