TEMECULA - A Temecula man suspected of assaulting and attempting to abduct his girlfriend at knifepoint until she fought back and escaped from him remained at large today.

Daniel Silva, 23, allegedly got into an argument with his girlfriend that escalated into violence Sunday afternoon at the victim's residence in the 36000 block of Samantha Lane, according to Riverside County sheriff's officials.

"Silva physically assaulted and brandished a knife at the victim," sheriff's Sgt. Jon Wade said. "Silva ordered the victim, at knifepoint, to pack some clothes and leave Advertisement

[ Pala Mesa Resort ] with him in a vehicle."

Silva forced the woman into a detached garage and attempted to push her into his car, Wade said.

"While being threatened with the knife, the victim was able to disarm Silva, jab him with the knife in self-defense and escape," Wall said.

The woman hid and dialed 911 on her cellphone, emerging when deputies arrived moments later.

Silva could not be located. A description of the suspect was not provided.

Anyone with information was urged to call the sheriff's Temecula Station at (951) 696-3000.