Breakdown of freight train delays Metrolink service to Riverside

The breakdown of a four-mile-long Union Pacific freight train Thursday afternoon has delayed Metrolink service to Riverside since 1 p.m., railroad officials said.

Mechanical problems forced the Union Pacific train to stop on Metrolink’s Riverside Line east of the Industry station, resulting in the cancellation of two commuter trains -- the 402 and 411.

Metrolink, which serves six Southern California counties, shares the track with Union Pacific, the nation’s largest freight railroad.

Jeff Lustgarten, a Metrolink spokesman, said buses are being provided to stranded passengers.

He added that Union Pacific told Metrolink that the problem should be solved by 4 p.m. If not, he said, the blocked track could severely impact rush hour service on the line.