By Our reporter
Guayaquil, Ecuador — A Catholic priest has died after a large wooden crucifix fell on him during a livestreamed Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil identified the priest as Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, 53, parish priest of Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help) Church.
The incident happened on Saturday, October 17, 2026, while he was celebrating evening Mass at the altar.
Footage from the livestream shows the heavy crucifix detaching from the wall above the altar and striking him on the head. He did not appear to see it falling.
Worshippers rushed to help, with people heard shouting “Father, Father! Call an ambulance!” before the broadcast cut out.
The Archdiocese confirmed his death on Sunday, in a statement signed by Cardinal Luis Cabrera Herrera, and offered prayers for his eternal rest.
Fr. Sánchez, originally from Cuenca, belonged to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists) and had previously served at San Lorenzo Parish in Vinces, Los Ríos province.
Local authorities have not yet commented on what caused the cross to fall or whether it died at the scene or in hospital.
The incident has raised questions about safety inside places of worship, with a memorial Mass held at the same church on Sunday evening.
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