A Catholic priest, Rev. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, died on Saturday in a tragic incident during a livestreamed Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador. He was crushed by a falling wooden crucifix while conducting the service.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed the incident. During the service, viewers heard the congregation shouting for an ambulance just before the livestream ended abruptly. The Mass was broadcasted on the priest’s Facebook page, which had a substantial following of over 4,600 users.
The video captures the moment Sánchez faced the congregation when the large crucifix fell from the wall behind him, striking his head. He fell to the ground and did not rise again. The shocking footage quickly spread across social media and was covered by various news outlets.
In response, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil shared a post stating that Sánchez “has departed to the House of the Father to enjoy his presence and glory.” The archdiocese also extended its condolences, expressing “solidarity, affection, and love” for his family and friends during this difficult time. Local authorities have yet to comment on the tragic event.
Rev. Sánchez was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic religious order established in 1732, known for its presence in 80 countries worldwide.
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