A poignant appeal has been made by the family of fugitive Tom Phillips, who went missing with his three children nearly four years ago.
Family of New Zealand Man on the Run Calls for His Return with Children
Family of New Zealand Man on the Run Calls for His Return with Children
Appeal from Tom Phillips' family as search continues for him and his kids
In a heartfelt plea, the family of Tom Phillips is urging him to return home with his three children after nearly four years of being missing in New Zealand's rugged wilderness. Since he took Ember, 9, Maverick, 10, and Jayda, 12, away from their mother in December 2021 following a family dispute, Phillips and the children have eluded authorities. Recent sightings have sparked hope, including an encounter filmed last October by teenagers who stumbled upon them while hiking.
For the first time, Phillips' family directly addressed him through various media outlets, expressing their love and concern. His mother, Julia, conveyed her sadness over the situation, emphasizing the family's desire for him to seek help, stating, “It hurts every time I see photos of the children and of you.” Rozzi Phillips, Tom's sister, reiterated their unconditional support: “There’s a lot of love and support, and we’re ready to help you.”
Authorities believe the family has been camping in the North Island's western Waikato region. A significant NZ$80,000 reward was posted last year for information on their whereabouts. The children's well-being remains a primary concern, with police reports confirming that Phillips is not the legal custodian of the kids. As Phillips is wanted for his alleged involvement in a bank robbery and is believed to be armed, police have warned the public not to approach him, suggesting that he may have outside assistance in avoiding capture. The ongoing search continues to draw attention as the community hopes for a safe resolution.
For the first time, Phillips' family directly addressed him through various media outlets, expressing their love and concern. His mother, Julia, conveyed her sadness over the situation, emphasizing the family's desire for him to seek help, stating, “It hurts every time I see photos of the children and of you.” Rozzi Phillips, Tom's sister, reiterated their unconditional support: “There’s a lot of love and support, and we’re ready to help you.”
Authorities believe the family has been camping in the North Island's western Waikato region. A significant NZ$80,000 reward was posted last year for information on their whereabouts. The children's well-being remains a primary concern, with police reports confirming that Phillips is not the legal custodian of the kids. As Phillips is wanted for his alleged involvement in a bank robbery and is believed to be armed, police have warned the public not to approach him, suggesting that he may have outside assistance in avoiding capture. The ongoing search continues to draw attention as the community hopes for a safe resolution.
