A Catholic priest has died after a massive wooden crucifix fell on him while he was celebrating Mass at a church in Ecuador.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil.
The priest, identified as Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, was presiding over the service when the large crucifix mounted on the wall behind him suddenly detached and struck him on the head.
The incident was captured during a live broadcast of the Mass, with footage showing the crucifix falling on the priest as worshippers cried out in shock and rushed to his aid.
The livestream reportedly continued as parishioners attempted to assist the priest and contact emergency services. However, he died from his injuries.
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death in an official statement, expressing sorrow over the loss and extending its condolences to his family, friends and fellow members of the clergy.
The statement read:
“We inform you that our beloved Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, who served as parish priest of the Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate, has departed for the Father’s House to enjoy His presence and glory.”
The Archdiocese also offered prayers for the repose of his soul and expressed solidarity with the Redemptorist religious community, to which he belonged.
Father Sánchez Molinari was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Catholic religious order known for its missionary work.
As of the latest reports, the cause of the crucifix’s fall has not been established, and local authorities have not publicly provided further details about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
