A frantic and large-scale search operation is continuing across the Essex countryside for a father and his three young children, who vanished after a planned camping trip and have not been seen for days.
Tom Phillips, 49, is being urgently sought by Essex Police along with his children: Jayda, 9, Frankie, 6, and Macey, 3. The family was last seen in the early hours of Thursday morning, leaving their home in the Brentwood area for what was supposed to be a short camping excursion.
The situation took a sinister turn when the silver Skoda Scala they were travelling in was discovered abandoned and seemingly concealed in a rural area near the village of Harlow, close to the vast Epping Forest. The discovery has intensified concerns for the welfare of the entire family.
Adding to the anxiety, Mr. Phillips left a deeply concerning note for a family member, which detectives believe hints at his state of mind. While the contents have not been fully disclosed, it has been described as sufficiently alarming to justify a public appeal for information.
A Plea from the Heart
The children's mother and grandmother have made emotional public pleas, begging Tom to bring the children home safely. Their anguish is palpable as each hour passes without contact.
Essex Police have deployed a significant number of resources to the investigation, named Operation Maple. Specialist search teams, including dog units and police drones, have been scouring the dense woodland and surrounding areas where the car was found.
Detective Chief Inspector Tony Benson emphasised the urgency, stating: "This is completely out of character and we are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of Tom, Jayda, Frankie and Macey. We need to hear from anyone who has seen them or has information on where they might be."
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant
Authorities are asking the public, particularly those in the Essex and Hertfordshire regions, to be extra vigilant. They are urged to check any personal outbuildings, sheds, or garages where someone might seek shelter, and to report anything unusual immediately.
Tom Phillips is described as a white male, approximately 5'11" tall, with brown hair and a beard. He was last seen wearing a dark-coloured hoodie and dark trousers. Anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, is urged to contact Essex Police on 999, quoting incident 690 of 7 March.
