Tom Phillips, a father from New Zealand who disappeared with his three children into the wilderness three years ago, has been spotted with them for the first time since their disappearance. The children – Ember, Maverick, and Jayda – were seen by a group of pig hunters in the western Waikato region of the North Island.
The teenagers who encountered the family reported that Mr. Phillips was armed with a gun and had a long beard, while the children were masked and carrying their own packs. This sighting is considered credible by the New Zealand Police, who have been searching for the family since they went missing in December 2021 after a dispute with the children’s mother.
While there have been previous sightings of Mr. Phillips, this is the first time he has been seen with all three of his children. The police have also released CCTV footage showing Phillips with one of his children attempting to break into a store in Piopio last year.
The mother of the children, Cat, expressed her relief that they are still alive and appeared to be in good health. She criticized her ex-partner for using the children as pawns in his game and called for more efforts to track him down. The police believe that Mr. Phillips is being assisted by other parties and have urged anyone helping him to come forward.
Authorities had offered a cash reward for information leading to the safe return of the children, but the offer expired without any claims. The children have not been in contact with others for the past three years and have not received an education. Police have warned the public against approaching Mr. Phillips as he is considered armed and dangerous.
The sighting of Tom Phillips and his children has brought hope to their wider family, who have been worried about their well-being. The search for the family continues as authorities work to ensure the safe return of Ember, Maverick, and Jayda.