A teenage girl, aged 15, used her intelligence to outsmart a Navy veteran who admired Ted Bundy, enduring 18 hours of torture and abuse. Kara Robinson Chamberlain, now a mother of three, had her life changed forever in June 2002 while tending to plants at a friend’s home. Richard Evonitz, 38, approached her with pamphlets, leading to her abduction.
During the harrowing ordeal, Kara remained vigilant, noting details like turns taken, a plastic container’s serial number, and the radio station playing. She crafted a plan to gather information, wait for an opportunity, and escape. Despite being held captive with restraints, Kara observed her surroundings, including magnets on the fridge and caged animals, trying to establish rapport with her captor by offering to clean.
After spotting a chance when Evonitz fell asleep, Kara freed herself and fled, fearing for her life but determined to survive. She bravely led authorities to Evonitz’s location, where evidence linked him to the unsolved murders of three young girls. Evonitz, a fan of Ted Bundy, evaded capture briefly but was eventually apprehended in Florida after a high-speed chase, ending his life before facing justice.
Kara’s courageous actions not only saved herself but also helped solve the cases of the murdered girls. She later reflected on the significance of her actions, realizing the closure she provided to grieving families. Kara, now a mother and a survivor, transitioned to a career in law enforcement to support other survivors and spread hope.