Daijiworld Media Network- Waikato

Waikato, Sep 8: A New Zealand father who had been on the run with his three children for almost four years was killed in a police shootout on Monday, authorities confirmed.

Tom Phillips absconded with his children in December 2021 following a dispute with his former partner. The family evaded capture despite several sightings, including CCTV footage last month showing Phillips and a child allegedly breaking into a store.

Police said the deadly confrontation occurred in the rolling hill country of the North Island’s Waikato region after officers were called to a potential burglary. Phillips allegedly fired a high-powered rifle at police, hitting an officer in the head and shoulder. The wounded officer was airlifted to hospital for surgery and described as critically injured but “survivable,” according to acting deputy commissioner Jill Rogers.

During the shootout, one of Phillips’ children was present and was taken into custody unharmed. The other two children remain missing, prompting a large-scale police search in freezing conditions, with about 50 officers, including armed units, involved. Authorities suspect the children are alone in the bush.

Rogers said the case had long worried police due to the potential for a deadly confrontation. Phillips was believed to have had several accomplices providing food and shelter while on the run.

Phillips had been charged with aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and unlawful possession of a firearm since fleeing. His case had drawn widespread attention in Waikato, particularly in the town of Marokopa.

The mother of the children, known as Cat, expressed relief that the ordeal had ended. “They have been dearly missed every day for nearly four years, and we are looking forward to welcoming them home with love and care,” she said. She also requested privacy as the children reintegrate into a stable environment following their “long and difficult journey.”