Sheriff's Deputies Have Attempted-Kidnap Suspect Behind Bars, But No Victim

SANTA CLARITA (CBSLA.com)  —  Sheriff's deputies in Santa Clarita have an attempted-kidnapping suspect behind bars but lack the victim to continue to keep him there.

Thanks to an eyewitness, the suspect is in custody.

But KCAL9's Juan Fernandez reports the victim is nowhere to be found.

Without the victim, Fernandez reports, it will be hard to move the case forward.

The victim is a girl, about 16, authorities said.

Just feet from Sierra Highway and Jakes Way, a woman driving by was able to stop what appeared to be an abduction in progress.

"This male allegedly approached a female and an assault took place," LA County Sheriff's Department Deputy Josh Dubin said.

The motorist called 911.

She stayed on the scene at a bus stop until deputies arrived.

A Latino man in his late 30s or early 40s was taken into custody.

But the possible victim fled. Without her, deputies will have no choice but to release the man, officials said.

The suspect remains in custody at the Santa Clarita Sheriff's Station.

"The victim we are attempting to locate right now is a teenage girl, approximately 14-16 years of age. She was wearing a plaid shirt, a skirt and socks. She had a bow in her hair. She fled in the Jakes Way and Sierra Highway area," said Dubin.

Once the possible victim comes forward, officials said they will release more information about the suspect in case there are more possible victims out there.

Authorities are trying to match the girl's outfit with schools in the area.

They also wanted the young woman to know if she wants to come forward but is too scared, she can do so anonymously.