Three Children of Fugitive Father in New Zealand Reported Safe After Police Incident
Authorities in New Zealand have confirmed that the three children of a fugitive father, who was shot by police this week after nearly four years on the run, are doing well despite the circumstances. On September 9, Warwick Morehu from Oranga Tamariki (Ministry for Children) stated that the children had a restful night and are engaged with staff who are assisting them.
Tom Phillips disappeared with his children—12-year-old Jayda, 10-year-old Maverick, and 9-year-old Ember—following a disagreement with their mother in 2021. Phillips had been in hiding since December of that year, believed to be living off the grid in the wilderness.
On September 8, police confirmed that Phillips was fatally shot during an encounter in Waikato, located in the upper North Island. This incident followed a suspected burglary in Piopio.
Following the shooting, police reported that the two remaining children were found unharmed and are now safe. The third child, present with Phillips, was already in police custody.
In a follow-up update, Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers informed that the siblings are now reunited and under the care of Oranga Tamariki. In his statement, Morehu assured the public that preparations for the children’s return had been in place since their disappearance.
“We are committed to ensuring these children receive the support they need,” Morehu said, emphasizing that a dedicated team is ready to assist them. He also mentioned that they are collaborating with other agencies to provide any necessary assistance.
Morehu noted that the children had been through a challenging experience, and everyone involved aims to help them return to a normal routine. He requested privacy for the family while acknowledging the public’s interest in the case.
Photos released by police showed the campsite where the family was believed to be staying before the shooting. The police also reported recovering several firearms from the area.
The body of Tom Phillips was removed from the scene, and a post-mortem examination will take place. Investigators are currently interviewing locals to gather more information about the family’s whereabouts during their time in hiding.
According to reports, the children have been described as engaging and responsive with the staff providing care. Phillips’ former partner expressed her joy at their reunion, saying they have been deeply missed during their absence.
