WAIKATO, NEW ZEALAND — A prolonged and dramatic search that gripped the nation came to a tragic end early Monday when a fugitive father, who had been evading capture with his three children since late 2021, was killed in a shootout with police.
Authorities were alerted to a reported burglary at a rural supply store in Piopio around 2:30 a.m. Police pursued two suspects on a quad bike and deployed tire spikes to intercept them. During the ensuing confrontation, one of the suspects—believed to be the fugitive, identified as Tom Phillips—opened fire on officers with a high-powered rifle, critically injuring one officer. Responding officers returned fire, fatally wounding Phillips. He died at the scene.
One of Phillips' children was found at the scene and placed into protective custody, where the child cooperated with investigators. Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers confirmed the remaining two children were located later that day at a remote campsite in the bush—safe and uninjured—and are now receiving medical and emotional support.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described the incident as “deeply tragic,” noting the emotional toll on the community and family. “This is not what anybody wanted to happen,” he remarked.Meanwhile, the children’s mother expressed relief that the ordeal is over, though mourning its violent conclusion.
