She released a heart-wrenching statement.

The mother of three children who vanished into the New Zealand wilderness with their father four years ago has spoken out after their dramatic recovery and the death of their father, Tom Phillips.

Phillips first disappeared with Jayda, 12, Maverick, 10, and Ember, nine, in 2021, despite not having legal custody. He briefly returned months later, claiming they had been camping, but after vanishing again in December, authorities launched an extensive search. Sporadic sightings followed, with CCTV footage in August showing a man believed to be Phillips with one of the children in the small town of Piopio.

On September 8, police say Phillips was shot dead during a confrontation after an attempted burglary. The encounter left one officer critically injured, though doctors believe his injuries are survivable. One of Phillips’ children was present but unharmed, and later assisted police in locating the other two siblings, who were found safe at a remote campsite. All three children are now undergoing medical checks.

Their mother, Cat, expressed both relief and sorrow in a statement. *“First and foremost, we are deeply relieved that for our tamariki this ordeal has come to an end. They have been dearly missed every day for nearly four years, and we are looking forward to welcoming them home with love and care. At the same time, we are saddened by how events unfolded today. Our hope has always been that the children could be returned in a peaceful and safe way for everyone involved.”*

Cat also extended compassion toward the injured officer and thanked the community for its ongoing support. She asked for privacy as the family works with government agencies to help the children reintegrate into a safe and stable environment after their ordeal.

Deputy Police Commissioner Jill Rogers confirmed the children are cooperating with authorities but did not comment on whether they have been told of their father’s death or who will assume custody.

The case, which gripped New Zealand for years, has now reached a tragic but hopeful turning point.