She eventually began to understand Mitchell's mindset and soon began to work toward her own rescue. Mitchell and Barzee had taken her to California and she told the religious zealot that she had a vision from God who told her that they should all return to Salt Lake City together. It was this move back to the region that helped open up the possibility of her rescue.

For months, people all over the region were on the lookout for the young girl, and thankfully, an eagle-eyed stranger, Trevelin Colianni, spotted her at a Burger King. He saw Smart wearing a wig, sunglasses, scarf, "and a look [he'd] never forget." He told police that the young girl seemed "very frightened" and "nervous," and he couldn't forget "the look in that little girl's face."

Officers were able to stop Smart, along with Mitchell and Barzee, as they were leaving a Walmart. They separated Smart from the couple and confirmed her identity.

Although Smart was initially reluctant to tell her story, she believes there is value in sharing her experiences in the hopes of spreading awareness and assisting others who have been through similar trauma.