15-Year-Old Girl Helps Deputies Identify Man They Say Tried To Lure Her Into Car

CANYON COUNTRY (CBSLA.com) — A 15-year-old girl helped Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies identify a man they say tried to lure her into a car while she walked to school Tuesday morning.

The ninth-grade student was walking to Canyon High School about 7 a.m. when a man driving a dark green Audi convertible slowed down and shouted, "Get in the car," the Sheriff's Department said.

The student started yelling in an attempt to draw attention, and the suspect drove away.

"She was screaming to get attention towards her," said Camila Renteria, one of the girl's classmates. "I think that's pretty smart. That's what my mom always told me to do."

The teenager's next move proved crucial to the deputies' investigation: She recorded a video of the car with her cellphone.

She then provided an image to the Sheriff's Department, along with a description of the suspect, who was believed to be a man his 30s with reddish-brown hair.

The Sheriff's Department later received a tip identifying the driver of the car.

A man was questioned in connection with the incident but released, authorities said. His name was not released.

The William S. Hart Union High School District used the story as a reminder for students to remain vigilant against possible threats.

"We reminded parents that it is a great opportunity to talk with their children about walking in groups and being safe and alert at all times," a district spokesperson said.