Drone footage uncovers key evidence from fugitive father Tom Phillips’ campsite in New Zealand after his deadly shootout with police.
Drone Images Expose Key Evidence From Fugitive Father’s Campsite
Chilling new drone footage has revealed critical items recovered from the secret campsite where New Zealand father Tom Phillips hid with his three children before being fatally shot by police.
Phillips vanished in 2021 with his children — Jayda (8), Maverick (7), and Ember (5) — sparking one of the country’s most disturbing missing-person cases.
On September 8, 2025, the manhunt ended in tragedy. Police confronted Phillips and one of his children on quad bikes in Marokopa, Waikato after reports of a farm supply store break-in. Gunfire erupted, leaving one officer in critical condition with a head wound. Another officer returned fire, killing Phillips at the scene.
Hours later, police confirmed the two missing children were found alive and safe.
Evidence Found in Drone Footage
Drone images published by the New Zealand Herald showed a collection of items located 7 km from the fatal shootout site. Among the findings:
A quad bike and a motorbike linked to the investigation
Plastic containers, tarpaulins, oil cans, a milk bottle, tyres, and a helmet
Police clarified that only the motorbikes and certain items are relevant to the case, while other rubbish was unrelated.
Waikato Acting District Commander Andrea McBeth confirmed the items are now secured as evidence, stating:
“These items will be critical in determining who exactly has been helping Tom. The campsites will be dismantled following examination.”
Investigators believe Phillips maintained at least two separate campsites during the four years he was in hiding.
Family’s Emotional Statement
The children’s mother, Cat, released a heartfelt message after police confirmed Phillips’ death:
“First and foremost, we are deeply relieved this ordeal has come to an end. Our children have been missed every day for nearly four years. We look forward to welcoming them home with love and care. At the same time, we are saddened by how events unfolded. Our hope was always for a peaceful and safe return.”
The case continues to raise questions about who may have helped Phillips remain hidden for so long, as authorities piece together evidence from the campsite.
