Judge to Review Media Gag Order in Tom Phillips Case Tomorrow

An urgent legal matter regarding a media injunction will be addressed in the High Court in Wellington tomorrow. The injunction seeks to prevent the publication of specific details connected to the investigation surrounding the death of Tom Phillips. Phillips died following a shootout with police, which occurred after reports of a burglary in the early hours of Monday, March 11, 2024.

The incident escalated when police arrived on the scene, resulting in a confrontation where a police officer sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the head. The officer is currently hospitalized with significant injuries, described by police as “survivable.” During the incident, one of Phillips’ children, who was present, began cooperating with authorities and reported the presence of firearms at the campsite where the shooting took place.

After an extensive search lasting more than 12 hours, the remaining children were found in a remote campsite located approximately 2 kilometers from the site of the fatal shooting. The situation has drawn significant media attention, prompting the legal request for a gag order to limit the dissemination of sensitive information as the investigation unfolds.

The High Court’s decision on the media injunction could have substantial implications for how information related to this case is reported. The hearing will address the balance between public interest and the privacy rights of those involved, including the Phillips family.

As the case develops, both the legal proceedings and the ongoing investigation will continue to be closely monitored by the media and the public. The outcome of the High Court’s review will be pivotal in determining the future of coverage surrounding this tragic event.