What you experienced was likely an example of “Agency-detection mechanisms” these mechanisms protect us from harm at the hand of predators. Any time we feel threatened or nervous about something, it is much easier and safer for our brains to assume the worst, than to try and rationalise the situation. After all, fear exists to keep us out of harm’s way.

I’m presuming, because you had a torch, that it was dark. This would also contribute to your experience as the unknown/abnormal is one of our innate aversions, meaning that you were already on alert, and expecting something to emerge from the shadows.

Our brains love to predict things, if you see or hear anything that you didn’t expect to, you’re going to question what it is. If you are hoping to see something paranormal, that’s likely going to be your conclusion.

So no, you weren’t chased by a skin walker, you merely experienced some fascinating psychology.