New footage suggests New Zealand father on the run with child
Fresh CCTV footage has been released by New Zealand police, showing a fugitive dad believed to be Tom Phillips, along with one of his children, more than three years after he disappeared with his three kids. The video captures two individuals in full-body clothing breaking into a store at night before making their escape on a quad bike. Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders announced during a press conference that the duo made away with some grocery items stolen from the store.
Phillips disappeared with his children in December 2021, following a legal battle where he lost custody of the kids. Ember, Maverick, and Jayda have been missing since then, prompting a nationwide search effort to locate them. The police decided to release the latest footage in the hopes that the community could provide sighting reports to assist in finding Phillips and his children.
The burglary incident occurred around 02:00 local time in Piopio, a small town in northern New Zealand. The police mentioned that Phillips had previously attempted to target the same store back in November 2023 but was unsuccessful. Detective Saunders emphasized that the primary focus is on the well-being of the three children who have been away from their home for four years.
Tom Phillips is facing charges that include aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and illegal possession of a firearm, according to the police. Authorities suspect that Phillips may have received help from other individuals, indicating a level of planning and coordination behind his actions. Detective Saunders expressed uncertainty about the implications of the burglary and whether it reflects a falling out with his accomplice or Phillips’ audacious confidence in carrying out criminal activities.
In October of the previous year, Phillips and his children were spotted for the first time since their disappearance by a group of teenagers who filmed the encounter. The police disclosed that the kids had no interactions with anyone for years and had missed out on receiving an education during their time away. A cash reward was offered by authorities last year to anyone providing information leading to the safe return of the children, but unfortunately, the reward expired without being claimed.
Public pleas from Phillips’ family have urged him to return home. In a note shared with the local media, Phillips’ mother expressed her sorrow and love for her son, emphasizing that the family is ready to provide support and care for him and the children. The emotional plea also highlighted the pain felt by the mother every time she sees photos of her grandchildren and Phillips, as well as the belongings he left behind.