Artist’s sketch of suspect | Click to enlarge

Investigators are asking for the public’s help in finding a suspect who reportedly tried to kidnap a young woman near Valencia High School Monday night.

The attempted kidnapping occurred Monday at approximately 6:45 p.m.

The 17-year old victim, who lives in Santa Clarita, reported that while she was in the 27800 block of Dickason Drive, a man she did not know parked his truck nearby, got out, and approached her. The man grabbed her and moved her a few feet, but she was able to break free from his grasp.

She fled and hid behind a building. The suspect then returned to his truck and drove away, heading eastbound on Decoro Drive towards McBean Parkway and out of view.

The Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station is seeking public assistance in identifying and locating this man. The suspect is described only as a male Hispanic, approximately 40 years old. Additional information regarding the suspect’s description will be released after a composite sketch is completed.

The suspect’s vehicle is described as an early 1990’s Toyota pick-up, red in color. The windows to the vehicle are heavily tinted. The word “Toyota” is written in large white letters across the tailgate.

All residents are asked to immediately report suspicious persons matching the above description. Don’t delay; call 9-1-1.

Anyone with information about this suspect or vehicle is asked to call Detective Painter of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station’s Detective Bureau at (661) 799-5141.