Authorities have released a composite sketch of a man wanted in connection with the kidnapping and attempted sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl in the Florence area of South Los Angeles.

The incident began about 6:10 p.m. Thursday when the girl was walking home from Freemont High School, according to a news release issued by the Los Angeles Police Department.

The man walked up to her on Gage Avenue, near San Pedro Street (map), forced her into a white van at knifepoint, then drove her to another location and he attempted to sexually assault her, the statement said.

He then drove the victim to an alley near the intersection of Imperial Highway and New Hampshire Avenue, where she was able to run from the man and escape, detectives said.

The alleged kidnapper is described as black, 5 feet 7 inches, about 170 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes and a dark complexion. He is believed to be 20 to 30 years old.

He was driving a white cargo van with two doors to the rear and on the passenger’s side, according to authorities. “U-Haul” and “19.95” were posted on the rear of the vehicle.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Los Angeles Police Department at 877-527-3247. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Tipsters can also text the letters “LAPD” and a tip to 274637, or visit lapdonline.org and click on Anonymous Web Tips.