Elizabeth Smart was only 14 years old when she was kidnapped from her home in Salt Lake City, Utah. On the night of June 5, 2002, a man entered her room through a window and took her away at knifepoint. Her younger sister, Mary Katherine, was in the same room and threatened not to make a sound.
Mary Katherine ran to inform their parents, and a huge search operation began immediately. Police tried many ways to track Elizabeth, including using bloodhounds, but initially, there was no clue. Even her family members were questioned during the investigation.
Who Kidnapped Elizabeth Smart?
The main kidnapper was Brian David Mitchell, a man who called himself a religious preacher. He had worked at the Smart family home before and had been seen preaching on the streets. He also did repair work for Elizabeth’s mother.
Mitchell was helped by his wife, Wanda Barzee. At first, Elizabeth’s sister only remembered his voice and the name “Immanuel.” This clue helped the police identify him. America’s Most Wanted released sketches of the suspects, and tips from the public finally led to progress in the case.
Life In Captivity – Elizabeth’s Ordeal
Elizabeth was kept in the mountains near Salt Lake City for almost nine months. Mitchell controlled every part of her life. He forced her into a so-called marriage with him and abused her physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Elizabeth was beaten, starved, forced to drink alcohol, and made to wear robes and veils. She was even taken outside in public as Mitchell’s “wife.” She did not try to escape earlier because she feared for her life.
How Elizabeth Smart Was Rescued
Elizabeth was rescued on March 12, 2003, almost nine months after her kidnapping. A passerby in Sandy, Utah, saw Mitchell and Barzee walking with a young girl and recognized them from America’s Most Wanted. He called the police immediately.
The police approached them and confirmed Elizabeth’s identity. She was safely reunited with her family at the age of 15. After this, she had to fight in court to ensure her kidnappers were punished.
Where Are Elizabeth Smart’s Kidnappers Now?
Brian David Mitchell was convicted of kidnapping and abuse in 2010 and sentenced to life in prison. Wanda Barzee, who helped him, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and released in 2018.
In May 2025, Barzee was arrested again for breaking parole rules. She had visited public parks, which is not allowed for registered sex offenders. Elizabeth had opposed her early release.
Where Is Elizabeth Smart Now?
Elizabeth Smart is now 38 years old. She is a mother of three, an author, and a child safety activist. She married Matthew Gilmour and founded the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, which works to protect children, prevent abuse, and support survivors.
She also wrote a memoir called My Story, which became very popular. Elizabeth often speaks about her experience to help others understand trauma and recovery. She says that she has good days and bad days, but she has learned to be strong and keep moving forward.
Netflix’s Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart – The Documentary
Netflix released a documentary called Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart on January 21, 2026. It is directed by Benedict Sanderson and tells the story from Elizabeth’s point of view.
Unlike earlier media coverage that focused on court cases, this documentary shows her life in captivity, the pressure on her family, and her long journey of healing. Elizabeth said she shares her story because she survived and wants people to know that survival is possible.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Smart’s story is not only about kidnapping but also about courage, survival, and hope. She turned her trauma into a mission to help others. While her kidnappers are in prison, Elizabeth continues to live a meaningful life and inspire people around the world.
FAQs About Elizabeth Smart
Who kidnapped Elizabeth Smart?
Elizabeth Smart was kidnapped by Brian David Mitchell with the help of his wife, Wanda Barzee, in June 2002.
How long was Elizabeth Smart missing?
She was missing for almost nine months and was rescued on March 12, 2003.
What happened to the kidnappers?
Brian David Mitchell is in prison for life. Wanda Barzee served 15 years and was released in 2018 but was arrested again in 2025 for breaking parole rules.
What is Elizabeth Smart doing now?
She is an activist, author, and mother. She founded the Elizabeth Smart Foundation and works to prevent abuse and support survivors.
Did Elizabeth Smart write a book?
Yes, her memoir My Story was published in 2013 and became a bestseller.
Why does Elizabeth Smart share her story?
She shares her story to inspire others, educate about abuse, and show that recovery and survival are possible.