Train derails in San Diego causing 20-30 minute delays

SAN DIEGO - Some Coaster and Amtrak riders experienced 20-30 minutes delays this morning because of a noninjury freight train derailment in the Sorrento Valley area, authorities said.

The derailment occurred around 10:20 p.m. Monday between the Sorrento Valley Station and the Old Town Station, according to San Diego police.

Coaster riders this morning were bussed around the derailment, according to the North County Transit District, which operates the commuter train. A so-called bus bridge was in place to take riders from Sorrento Valley to Old Town to downtown San Diego, said Sarah Benson, a spokeswoman for the NCTD.

Southbound Amtrak riders were stopped in Solana Beach, unless they opted to get off in Oceanside so they could also be bussed around the derailment.

Police reported early today that the freight train did not tip over when it derailed. Later this morning, Benson said a total of six freight train cars derailed and a couple may have toppled over. All six were empty, she said.

The cause of the mishap was not immediately determined.

It was unclear how long it would take to reopen the line.