A years-long manhunt for a fugitive New Zealand father has ended in a fatal police shooting, leaving one officer critically injured and two of the man’s children still missing.

Tom Phillips, who vanished with his three young children in December 2021, was shot and killed by police during a confrontation in the Waikato region of New Zealand. The incident occurred after Phillips allegedly attempted a robbery at an agricultural supplies store in the rural town of Piopio. During the encounter, Phillips reportedly shot a police officer in the head. The officer was airlifted to a hospital and remains in serious condition.

One of Phillips' children was with him at the time of the incident and has been safely taken into custody. However, the whereabouts of his other two children are unknown, prompting an urgent search in the area amid concerns over cold weather conditions.

The dramatic conclusion follows a saga that has captivated the nation for nearly three years. Phillips, an experienced bushman, first disappeared with his children—Jayda, Maverick, and Ember—in september 2021. The family resurfaced safe and well after 17 days of living in a tent in dense bush, but disappeared again in december 2021 ahead of a scheduled court appearance for Phillips.

For years, Phillips and his children lived off-grid, evading a massive police search operation. He was believed to be using his extensive survival skills to sustain his family in remote terrain. While on the run, authorities allege Phillips was involved in other crimes, including an armed bank robbery in may 2023.

Police had long suspected that Phillips was receiving assistance to remain hidden. Officials had offered a significant financial reward and even immunity from prosecution for information leading to the family's location, but the measures failed to produce a breakthrough. The case created a divide in the local community, with some residents of the rural area reportedly expressing support for Phillips during his time as a fugitive.

The children’s mother, who had been separated from them for years, has expressed relief that the ordeal is over and has stated she hopes for a reunion with all of her children. The investigation is now focused on the critical search for the two missing children and understanding the full scope of Phillips' time in hiding.