Burnaby RCMP have launched an investigation into an assault that allegedly occurred on a trail near SFU.

Around 8:30 p.m. on July 14, a 19-year-old female had been on a trail north of University Drive and West Campus Road at SFU and was heading towards Burnaby Mountain Park.

She told police that as she was walking, she noticed a man following her who tried to talk to start a conversation with her.

The man allegedly grabbed her by the hand but she was able to get away from the suspect and ran to a parking lot where she asked for help from other people.

The man walked to the parking lot and continued to try and engage with the female before he left in a car described as a grey or black four-door Acura.

The suspect is described as a South Asian male who is 175 centimetres (five-feet, nine-inches) tall and appears to be about 19 to 23 years old. He has brown eyes, is clean shaven, and was wearing a black turban, blue long-sleeved shirt, grey sweat pants, and black sandals.

Anyone who saw or has information about this incident is asked to contact Burnaby RCMP or Crimestoppers.

Burnaby RCMP are reminding citizens to be vigilant when using trails in the area, to walk in pairs or groups, and to not wear headphone or become distracted by phones.