Updates charge and status of victim

Two good Samaritans, including an off-duty cop, helped Santa Clarita deputies arrest an assault suspect who attacked a 70-year-old woman jogging on a Valencia bike trail Tuesday, officials said.

A male transient reportedly attacked the woman around 8:20 a.m. Tuesday on the South Fork Trail, which is not far from several car dealerships, according to Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station officials.

The transient,Colton Ford, 29, is currently in custody on an attempted murder charge.

The suspect reportedly attacked the woman without provocation, strangling her and rendering her unconscious, according to law enforcement officials.

The attack was witnessed by two men, including a retired police officer, who was able to detain the suspect until deputies arrived on scene, near Auto Center Drive and Creekside Road in Santa Clarita.

“If not for the quick action of the two good Samaritans, the outcome of this incident could have been much worse,” according to a statement from Sheriff’s Station officials. “We are proud to be partnering with our community, being aware and watching out for one another. We encourage our community partners to report any suspicious activity and if they see something, to say something.”

Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel arrived and rendered aid to the victim. The woman was transported to a local hospital, and is listed in fair condition.

He’s being held in lieu of $2 million bail.

Anyone with information regarding the crime is asked to call the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station at 661-255-1121.

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