CCTV Footage Shows New Zealand Fugitive and Child Breaking Into Store

Sun Sep 14 2025 03:05:15 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Fresh video footage released by New Zealand police appears to show fugitive Tom Phillips and one of his children breaking into a store, reigniting the search for the family who has been missing for over three years.

Police in New Zealand have unveiled new CCTV footage believed to show Tom Phillips and one of his children breaking into a store, prompting authorities to renew their efforts in locating the fugitive and his three children. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning and is part of an ongoing investigation to ensure the wellbeing of the children.

New Zealand police have released fresh CCTV footage believed to show a fugitive who disappeared with his three children more than three years ago.

The night-time footage shows two people in full-body clothing - who police are 'confident' is Tom Phillips and one of his children - apparently breaking into a store before driving away on a quad bike.

Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders told a press conference on Friday that the pair had made off with some 'grocery items'.

Mr Phillips disappeared into the wilderness with his three children in December 2021 after losing legal custody of them.

Since then, a national search has been underway for Mr Phillips and his children: Ember, Maverick, and Jayda. Police hope that by releasing the latest footage, the community will report any sightings.

The apparent break-in happened on Wednesday around 02:00 local time (Tuesday 14:00 GMT) in Piopio, a small town in northern New Zealand. Police said Mr Phillips was believed to have unsuccessfully targeted the same store in November 2023.

At the heart of this are three children who have been away from their home for four years. Their wellbeing is our main focus, Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders said.

Mr Phillips faces a range of charges including aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and illegally possessing a firearm.

Police previously said they believed Mr Phillips had assistance from other people, and are now 'considering what this burglary actually means'. Detective Saunders questioned if this incident indicated a falling out with those helping him or if Mr Phillips was simply becoming more brazen.

Last October, Mr Phillips and his three children were spotted for the first time since their disappearance, when a group of teenagers filmed their encounter while trekking.

Authorities had previously offered a cash reward for information leading to the children's safe return, but the offer expired without being claimed.

Mr Phillips's family has publicly pleaded for him to come home. His mother expressed her sadness in a note to the media, emphasizing the love and support available for him.