New Zealand Police Fatally Shoot Man After Children Found Safe
URGENT UPDATE: New Zealand Police have confirmed the fatal shooting of Tom Phillips, a man who eluded authorities for nearly four years after vanishing into the wilderness with his three children. This dramatic encounter occurred early Monday morning in Waikato when Phillips opened fire, injuring an officer.
Phillips, aged 38, had been living off the grid since December 2021, reportedly without legal custody of his children who are 9, 10, and 12 years old. The police were alerted to his location following reports of a burglary at a farm supply store. Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers announced that when officers intercepted Phillips’ all-terrain vehicle, he shot one officer in the head, prompting a swift police response.
Authorities were quick to act, deploying spike strips at a key intersection. After the vehicle stopped, Phillips fired a high-powered rifle at the first approaching officer, who sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to survive. In a rapid escalation, police returned fire, resulting in Phillips’ death at the scene.
Following the intense standoff, police located Phillips’ three children safe and unharmed at a remote campsite. The children were reportedly assisting authorities with their inquiries. Rogers emphasized the emotional toll of the situation, stating, “We are relieved that the children are safe, but this incident underscores the complexity of the case.”
For nearly four years, Phillips and his children managed to evade extensive searches, leading to speculation that they were living off the grid. Reports indicate that Phillips was involved in several robberies and break-ins during this time, often accompanied by one of his children. He faced multiple serious charges, including aggravated robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm.
The incident has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of the children and the effectiveness of the police efforts to locate Phillips beforehand. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to understand the full circumstances surrounding the events leading to this tragic outcome.
What’s next? Police are expected to hold a press conference later this week to provide updates on the investigation and the condition of the injured officer. The community remains on edge, grappling with the implications of this shocking event and its impact on child welfare and public safety.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
