Police Minister, Mark Mitchell, will travel to the Waikato region this morning as Police investigate the death of fugitive father, Tom Phillips, who shot a Police officer before being fatally shot by Police yesterday.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon addressed media as the officer underwent surgery at Waikato Hospital.
“This was a constable who was out looking after his community,” said Mr Luxon.
“Police are naturally devastated by what’s happened to their colleague.”
“What’s happened is a reminder that Police put themselves on the line every time, every day they put on that uniform to keep our community safe
“He, his family and colleagues are in my thoughts and the thoughts of all kiwis.”
New Zealanders thoughts were also with the children involved in yesterday’s incident, said the Prime Minister.
“[Monday’s] events are not how anyone wanted this to end and I know that there will be many questions about it,” he said.
Specialist Police officers located the outstanding two children of Mr Phillips (pictured, inset) during a search in bush near Waitomo on Monday afternoon.
The pair were located at around 4.30pm in bushland approximately 2km from the location where their father was fatally shot.
“I’m pleased to say they are unharmed, and are now safe,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers said in a statement.
“This is an emotional development. To know the children are safe, and now receiving care after nearly four years, is an absolute relief.
“Every person involved in this case has had the welfare of the children at heart.
“While they are safe, this is the start of a long journey of recovery and their welfare remains our top priority. For that reason, we will not be going into details about where they are now or their mental state.
“We can say the children were found alone and the scene has been locked down and will be subject to a forensic examination that we expect will last several days. A significant amount of work lies ahead of us, but we are grateful to see an end to what has been three years of torment for the children’s family.”
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers credited the “incredible” work by Police, who had to contend with a high-risk situation and difficult circumstances both earlier this morning and throughout the day, for the result.
“I want to acknowledge our colleague who was shot and faces a long recovery. I will be arriving back in New Zealand late tonight and travelling to Waikato first thing in the morning,” he said.
