Authorities in New Zealand have published a second set of photos showing another campsite used by the father who vanished into the wilderness with his children four years ago.
Tom Phillips and his kids, Jayda, Maverick, and Ember, disappeared back in 2021 after Phillips lost a custody battle with their mother, Cat.
Phillips was shot dead by police in the early hours of Monday morning after engaging in a gunfight following the attempted robbery at a farm supply store in Piopio, a town in the Waikato region of New Zealand.
Two police officers responded to the store, where they encountered gunfire after approaching one of two quad bikes that spikes had caught on the road.
According to reports, the first officer was shot in the head, leaving them in critical condition. A second officer returned fire, killing the shooter.
Following the fatal shootout that ended Phillips’ life, one of the missing children who was with him at the time (but was unharmed) was able to lead authorities to the two other children.
Yesterday police released photos of one of the campsites they believed Phillips used to evade them these past years. The father-of-three was experienced in bushcraft, with an array of survival skills at his disposal, and he and his children moved around the wilderness with the aid of quad bikes to stay ahead of those pursuing them.
On Tuesday (September 9), police released photos of a second campsite they believe Phillips used to hide.
In a press conference, Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Saunders said the area was “difficult to access, well-hidden and highlights the challenging environment the family used as their base”.
“It’s a very grim, dimly-lit area, surrounded by dense bush,” he explained. “The tent was well covered and dry. We are currently looking at a number of items at the site. Aside from the burglaries we are now able to link to Tom, it is apparent that he had outside help.”
The photos in question depict a shelter built from an assortment of materials, including tree branches. Police also found a portable gas stove and gas bottle.
Detective Saunders described the campsite as “not very nice for children”, with an empty gin bottle and iced coffee bottles strewn around.
“It’s not a camping trip for a couple of nights. It’s very dirty, cramped conditions,” Saunders added.
Police believe Phillips had a number of these campsites. Officials are now actively seeking them out as part of the ongoing investigation.
Following the recovery of her children, Phillips’ ex-wife, Cat, issued a statement, telling local outlet Mata that she is relieved the ordeal is over for them.
As per RNZ, she said: “First and foremost, we are deeply relieved that for our tamariki (children) this ordeal has come to an end. [The children] have been dearly missed every day for nearly four years, and we are looking forward to welcoming them home with love and care.
“At the same time, we are saddened by how events unfolded today. Our hope has always been that the children could be returned in a peaceful and safe way for everyone involved.”
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