Summary
A New Zealand father, Tom Phillips, who had been on the run with his three children for almost four years, was shot and killed by police during a confrontation in Piopio. Phillips was involved in a police chase after a reported robbery, which led to the fatal shootout. His three children have been found safe.
Key Facts
- Tom Phillips and his children had been hiding since late 2021, evading a national search.
- Phillips was killed during a police chase following a robbery report in Piopio, New Zealand.
- During the chase, police laid road spikes; Phillips and one child were on a quad bike when the police engaged.
- Phillips fired at the police, injuring an officer before he was shot and killed at the scene.
- Three children were found unharmed, with two located later with the help of one child's information.
- Phillips had been living on the run since losing legal custody of his children and had survival skills.
- There were several sightings of Phillips engaging in break-ins for resources over the years.
- Phillips was previously wanted for a bank robbery, and he had reportedly received help from locals.
