Fugitive father Tom Phillips, who was killed in a police shootout in New Zealand this week, was reportedly receiving outside assistance during his time on the run, according to New Zealand police. They released images of a newly discovered campsite, indicating that Phillips had spent nearly four years hiding in the wilderness with his three children. The police said Phillips was killed in an exchange of fire after a burglary was reported in the remote town of Piopio, located on the central North Island, on Monday. Two of his children were later found safe and well at a campsite in Waitomo, while the third child was with Phillips at the time of the shooting. By identifying what they believe to be Phillips’ main campsite for the last few months, the police stated that it appeared he had received outside help.
Senior Detective Andrew Saunders mentioned that they are currently investigating a number of items found at the site, and aside from the burglaries linked to Tom, it is apparent that he had some outside assistance. Mr. Saunders stated that they have always suspected Tom Phillips of receiving help, and they would now open a new investigation to identify anyone who assisted him. They will analyze objects found at the campsite to see if they could be linked to burglaries or were purchased specifically for Phillips.
The images released by the police show a well-hidden and difficult-to-access campsite located roughly 200m from the site where his children were found. The site appears to have been set up with tarpaulins, gas cylinders, and other essentials for survival. Detective Saunders described it as being “very grim, dimly-lit, and surrounded by dense bush,” but also cramped and unsuitable for children.
Images of the campsite were released on Tuesday, revealing a firearm and ammunition discovered at the location, about 2km from where Phillips had been killed. This site is not the primary place the family had lived since they vanished, according to Detective Saunders. Phillips took his children Ember now 9, Maverick 10, and Jayda 12, into the Waikato wilderness in December 2021, following a dispute with their mother. He was facing multiple charges, including aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Concerns have been raised about the children’s reintegration into society. The children’s’ mother, Cat, expressed uncertainty about when she would be reunited with them.
