Hikers on alert after reports of sexual assault on popular hiking trail

A warning from community members in Santa Clarita after a woman has a frightening encounter on a popular hiking trail.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department confirms to FOX 11 News that a woman filed a report on Friday, May 17th after an incident at Towsley Canyon, Santa Clarita Woodlands Park.

The victim's friend posted on social media labeled "SCV Emergency Now":

"SCV Emergency Now - Beware. A coworker was up at Towsley yesterday at 4pm meditating (her eyes were closed) when a Male approached her and she felt a yank on her hair. She opened her eyes and saw a man with his pants down standing over her [and performing a sex act on himself]. She got up and ran, went immediately to the Ranger station to report the incident. She made a full report today. Just be aware of your surroundings."

"He has a purplish in color Chevy, 4 door! White dude in his 40's wearing athletic clothing. #24 on his shirt."

Anyone with information is being asked to contact the LASD Text a TIP Web On-line TIP Call A TIP: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).