San Diego, January 14, 2026
Two 18-year-olds were arrested in San Diego after riding on the roof of a Coaster commuter train, a stunt that went viral online. Authorities emphasized the dangers of such behavior and the potential legal repercussions, stressing the importance of safety around moving trains.
San Diego, California – Two 18-Year-Olds Arrested for Train Surfing
Two 18-year-olds were arrested in San Diego after a video of them riding atop a Coaster commuter train went viral. The incident occurred on Friday, January 9, 2026, around 5 p.m., as the train was heading north toward Del Mar. The footage shows one individual standing and moving on the train’s roof while the other lies flat, possibly filming the stunt. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department received multiple reports from the Del Mar area about the dangerous act. Deputies located the suspects a few blocks away in Solana Beach, where they admitted to the stunt. Both were cited for trespassing on railroad property, a misdemeanor offense, and released. Their court appearance date has not yet been announced. Mary Dover, Chief of Staff for the North County Transit District, emphasized the dangers of such behavior, noting that Coaster trains can reach speeds up to 90 miles per hour. She urged the public to avoid engaging in similar activities, stating, “Anybody that thinks this is a good idea… it’s not worth your life, and it’s not worth potential legal action that we will take.”
Background on Train Surfing
Train surfing, the act of riding on the exterior of a moving train, is illegal and extremely dangerous. It poses significant risks, including the potential for serious injury or death. In the United States, individuals caught train surfing can face both fines and imprisonment. Authorities strongly discourage this behavior and emphasize the importance of safety and adherence to the law.
Public Reaction and Warnings
The incident has sparked concern among local residents and officials. Many express disbelief over the lengths individuals will go to for social media attention. The North County Transit District continues to investigate the matter and plans to press charges to the fullest extent of the law. The agency urges the public to be mindful of the dangers associated with moving trains and to refrain from engaging in illegal activities that can result in severe injury or death.
Similar Incidents Nationwide
Similar “train surfing” incidents have occurred in other parts of the country, leading to serious consequences. In New York City, for example, at least five deaths were reported in 2025 due to subway surfing activities. These incidents highlight the widespread nature of the problem and the critical need for public awareness and safety measures.
Conclusion
This event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with train surfing and the importance of adhering to safety regulations. Authorities continue to monitor and address such activities to ensure the safety of all individuals and the public.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is train surfing?
Train surfing is the act of riding on the exterior of a moving train, which is illegal and extremely dangerous. It poses significant risks, including the potential for serious injury or death.
What are the legal consequences of train surfing in the United States?
In the United States, individuals caught train surfing can face both fines and imprisonment. Authorities strongly discourage this behavior and emphasize the importance of safety and adherence to the law.
Have there been similar incidents in other parts of the country?
Yes, similar “train surfing” incidents have occurred in other parts of the country, leading to serious consequences. In New York City, for example, at least five deaths were reported in 2025 due to subway surfing activities.
What is being done to prevent train surfing?
Authorities continue to monitor and address such activities to ensure the safety of all individuals and the public. The North County Transit District, for example, plans to press charges to the fullest extent of the law and urges the public to be mindful of the dangers associated with moving trains.
Key Features of the Incident
| Date of Incident | Location | Individuals Involved | Charges | Train Speed | Legal Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 9, 2026 | San Diego, California | Two 18-year-olds | Trespassing on railroad property (misdemeanor) | Up to 90 miles per hour | Fines and imprisonment |
Now Happening on X
- @10News (January 12, 2026, 11:42 AM) A suspect was taken into custody from a Tierrasanta home after San Diego Police sent a SWAT team in response to a domestic violence call. View on X
- @eyeoftheSTORMsd (January 14, 2026, 6:57 AM) San Diego police are investigating a reported sexual assault at one of the city’s safe sleeping sites. View on X
- @Kambearoz_rocky (January 13, 2026, 2:28 AM) Discussion on accountability for safe sleeping sites in San Diego amid reports of a sexual assault at a city facility. View on X
- @sdcta (January 12, 2026, 6:47 AM) San Diego faces a 2026 operating budget deficit, with significant water and sewer rate increases planned but not enough to cover infrastructure costs. View on X
- @Adventuring_RE (January 10, 2026, 6:30 AM) Concerns raised about downtown San Diego becoming unsafe after dark due to increased crime and cartel activity. View on X
- @10News (January 8, 2026, 6:00 AM) Morning newsletter covers concerns over falling trees from high winds, protests after a woman was killed by an ICE agent, and a local investment scheme accusation. View on X
- @10News (January 9, 2026, 6:00 AM) Protests held in San Diego over an ICE shooting incident, with additional updates on fire survivors and tips for cutting grocery costs. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
