A Catholic priest has died in Ecuador after a large wooden crucifix fell on him while he was celebrating Mass, in an incident captured on a livestream.
The deceased has been identified as Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, a Redemptorist priest and parish priest of the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Guayaquil.
According to the report, the incident occurred on Saturday, October 17, 2026, about 27 minutes into the Mass which was being streamed live.
Footage circulating on social media shows the crucifix, which was mounted on the wall behind the altar, detaching and falling directly on the priest.
Worshippers present in the church were heard screaming and calling for an ambulance.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil has confirmed his death in a statement, saying he has “departed to the House of the Father to enjoy His presence and His glory.”
Credit: Tuko. Co. ke
