Recently released drone footage has captured significant items recovered from the campsite where Tom Phillips was hiding with his children in New Zealand.
Phillips went missing with his three children, Jayda, Maverick, and Ember, who were eight, seven, and five years old when they disappeared in 2021.
The New Zealand man was shot and killed during a confrontation with police in Marokopa, a small town on the west coast of Waikato, on Monday (September 8).
Authorities responded to a report of a break-in at a rural supply store early in the morning, encountering Phillips and one of his children on quad bikes.
A shootout ensued, with one officer being critically injured by a gunshot to the head. A second officer returned fire, resulting in Phillips’ death at the scene.
Following a search, police located Phillips’ other two children unharmed.
Drone footage provided by the New Zealand Herald has now revealed a collection of items situated about 7km from where Phillips was shot.
Authorities found a quad bike and a motorbike at the location, along with items like plastic containers, tarpaulins, oil containers, a milk bottle, tires, and a bike helmet.
“The quad bike and motorbike pictured are relevant to the investigation, however the pile of rubbish in the same photo is unrelated to the investigation,” stated New Zealand Police.
“All material related to the investigation has now been removed from the area.”
Police have gathered numerous items from what are believed to be two campsites used by Phillips over several years, with a team set to analyze these items.
Waikato Acting District Commander Andrea McBeth commented: “These items will be critical in determining who exactly has been helping Tom. The campsites will be dismantled following the conclusion of the scene examination and the key items will be secured as evidence.”
The children’s mother, Cat, released a statement after confirming Phillips’ death and the safe recovery of her children.
According to 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.”