The Gadianton army, recognizing its defeat, flees toward its homeland. Gidgiddoni follows up the Nephites’ military advantage by ordering pursuit with the goal of continuing to kill. In a weakened state from battle, the Gadiantons would be fleeing for their lives and were probably disorganized. Because fewer Nephite defenders would have been required than Gadianton attackers, it seems possible that the pursuing army had been held in reserve and were fresh troops. The story ends with the death of the Gadianton general, Giddianhi. Mormon communicates some respect for Giddianhi’s prowess (even while he disparagingly calls him a “robber”), since he notes that Giddianhi falls because of weariness, not lack of skill.
This decisive defeat was not the end of the Gadianton robbers. The strength of their position and population is indicated in their ability to quickly mount another offensive.