http://www.nbc4.tv/news/4888106/detail.html

LOS ANGELES -- Detectives in Topanga said they are searching for a missing music producer who called a friend early Sunday to say he was being chased by people with dogs.

Christian Julian Irwin, 48, was last seen near the 500 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Authorities said the case has signs of foul play.

Irwin, a producer with three Grammy nominations, was chased from his house and through a ravine, according to police. Authorities said he lost his glasses and shoes in a nearby creek.

Sheriff's K9s picked up the scent and searched up and down the creek for two miles, but found only his glasses.

"He really felt like he was running for his life," said John Riolo, Irwin's brother-in-law. "And, if he felt like he was running for his life, he probably was."

Capt. Ray Peavy of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said Irwin told the friend he was running through water and being chased.

Irwin has been nominated for three Grammy awards. He produced for Queen Latifah, De La Sol, Carly Simon, David Bowie and Vanessa Williams.

Family members gathered at his home Tuesday night. They said he was recently involved in a Nigerian Internet offering.

"He did receive a check in the mail last week for $50,000," said Sharon Riolo, Irwin's sister. "That frightened him. All of the sudden it became a little bit scary."

Authorities said Irwin returned the check.

Irwin was described as 6 feet 2 inches, 190 pounds, brown and gray hair, blue eyes and was last seen wearing a blue and red shirt, blue jeans and no shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff's Homicide Bureau, Missing Persons Detail at (323) 890-5500.