In a remote campsite in Waikato, New Zealand, the son of a fugitive pointed a rifle at police during a raid where his father was hiding. The father, Tom Phillips, engaged in a shootout with officers, resulting in one officer being critically injured and Phillips being killed.
Specialist officers, described as “highly trained and skilled negotiators,” successfully calmed down Maverick, 10, and his nine-year-old sister Ember, with the help of their sister Jayda, 12. Jayda played a crucial role in assisting the police by revealing the campsite’s location and informing them about the children’s access to firearms.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers confirmed the presence of a firearm at the campsite. Jayda, though not directly involved in the operation, aided in establishing communication with the children without alarming them, ensuring her safety was maintained during the process.
Phillips and Jayda were apprehended after a dramatic escape attempt involving a quad bike and a farm supply store robbery. The family’s ability to evade detection for an extended period raised questions about potential outside assistance, as investigators discovered evidence of temporary living arrangements at the campsite.
Despite a significant reward offered for information on their whereabouts, the family remained elusive until the final confrontation. Detective Saunders highlighted the involvement of external parties in aiding Phillips, who was perceived differently by the public, with opinions divided on his actions.
Commissioner Chambers dismissed any notion of Phillips being a hero, emphasizing the danger he posed to his own children and law enforcement officers. The incident shed light on the complexities of the case, prompting further investigation into the family’s activities and support network.