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WELLINGTON — New Zealand fugitive father Tom Phillips was killed Monday after a dramatic confrontation with police. Authorities said he evaded capture for nearly four years while hiding with his three children in rural Waikato.
Years of mystery in Marokopa
Phillips vanished with his children in December 2021, sparking one of New Zealand’s most baffling missing persons cases. The family lived in the remote settlement of Marokopa but rarely appeared in public. Despite extensive searches, sightings remained scarce, frustrating investigators. On Monday, police said Phillips robbed an agricultural supplies store before clashing with officers. During the confrontation, a police officer was shot in the head and critically wounded. Surgeons operated on the officer, and further treatment was expected.
One child found, two still missing
Authorities confirmed that one child with Phillips during the burglary was taken into custody. However, the whereabouts of the other two children remain unknown. Police expressed grave concern for their safety. Detective Senior Sgt. Andrew Saunders said the child found on Monday is cooperating with investigators.
Criminal history and support network
Phillips faced multiple charges while on the run, including armed robbery in May 2023 when he allegedly fired at a civilian. CCTV footage later showed him robbing a grocery store in August this year. Police suspected Phillips had local supporters who helped him hide. In 2024, officials offered an $80,000 reward and immunity from prosecution for information, but no one claimed it. Some residents sympathized with him, despite concerns for the children’s welfare.
Family disappearance and mother’s relief
This was not the first time Phillips vanished. In September 2021, he disappeared with his children for three weeks before resurfacing from a forest camping trip. Weeks before a scheduled court hearing for wasting police resources, he disappeared again in December with the children. On Monday, the children’s mother, Cat, issued a statement to Radio New Zealand. She said she was “deeply relieved” that the ordeal was ending and looked forward to reuniting with her children.
A case that gripped the nation
The New Zealand fugitive father saga captivated the country for nearly four years. While Phillips’ death brings closure, questions about his children’s welfare remain unanswered. Authorities continue searching, determined to reunite them with their family.
