A pipeline leaked about 21,000 gallons of crude oil near a beach in California, authorities said, creating a dark sheen that stretched for miles.

The 24-inch pipeline ruptured along the Santa Barbara coast Tuesday, according to Capt. Jennifer Williams of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Houston-based Plains All American Pipeline, which owns it, said it shut down the flow of oil in the pipeline and is conducting an emergency response.

Burst pipeline cloaks California beaches with oil

It said the leaked oil reached a culvert, which then spilled into the Pacific Ocean. The culvert was later blocked to stop the flow.

"Plains deeply regrets this release has occurred and is making every effort to limit its environmental impact," it said. "No injuries have been reported at this time."

The company said it found out about the oil Tuesday. The spill affected its Las Flores to Gaviota pipeline in Santa Barbara County.

(Source: CNN)