Police have acknowledged and accepted the findings of the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in relation to the fatal shooting of Tom Phillips.
As reported earlier, the IPCA found that an officer was justified in shooting Phillips in self-defence, as he believed that Phillips had shot and likely killed another officer and that he himself would also be killed or seriously injured if he did not act immediately.
The IPCA also found that officers provided appropriate aftercare to Phillips, says superintendent Scott Gemmell, Waikato district commander.
“The officers involved in responding to the sighting of Phillips early in the morning on September 8, 2025 were confronted with a volatile and extremely dangerous situation. As noted by the IPCA, [officers] implemented a successful plan to locate, follow and intercept Mr Phillips, showing foresight and initiative. [Other officers] responded with great urgency and proficiency to a highly dangerous situation.”
“I’m extremely proud of the officers involved and I join with the IPCA in commending them for their actions. I’m also pleased to report that the officer shot by Phillips is making positive progress in his recovery and is continuing rehabilitation. We are supporting him to return to work on a light duties basis as part of our reintegration programme.”
The IPCA did identify some shortcomings in police command and control of the incident, including the lack of a clearly identified incident controller, Gemmell adds.
“We will reflect on these findings and consider how we can use this incident as a means of conveying to staff the critical nature of effective command and control.”
