New Zealand authorities are facing a puzzling discovery following the dramatic conclusion to a four-year manhunt for escaped father Tom Phillips. After being apprehended and fatally shot by police in western Waikato, Phillips’ quad bike was found to contain shoeboxes. The fugitive father had been evading capture with his three children – Ember, Maverick, and Jayda – until a report of an armed robbery at a Piopio farm supply store led to their location being exposed.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers expressed intrigue at the shoeboxes, linking Phillips to previous burglary cases. He mentioned the ongoing efforts to trace the origins of equipment and clothing associated with Phillips. The campsite, situated near the shooting scene, depicted the challenging living conditions the children endured, including blankets on quad bikes and makeshift survival arrangements.
Chambers praised Jayda for her assistance in revealing her siblings’ whereabouts but emphasized the need to protect her from potential risks by not allowing her to accompany officers to the campsite. Multiple firearms were recovered from the campsite, prompting further investigation into how Phillips obtained them and whether others were involved.
Commissioner Chambers stressed the need to uncover any additional modes of transport or accomplices linked to Phillips. He condemned Phillips’ actions and reiterated the priority of safeguarding the children’s well-being. Oranga Tamariki regional commissioner Warwick Morehu assured that the children were settled, receiving adequate care, and would continue to be supported as needed.
Phillips and his children disappeared from Marokopa in December 2021 following a family disagreement, with Phillips accused of a bank robbery in September 2023. The children were last seen with their father in October 2024 and are believed to have lived in the wilderness since then.