Video: Priest dies after crucifix falls on him during livestreamed Mass in Ecuador

During a livestreamed Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador on October 17, a priest tragically died after a large wooden crucifix fell on him. Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, the parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, was leading the service when the crucifix detached from the wall above the altar.

The incident occurred approximately 27 minutes into the Mass, which was being broadcast on social media. Footage showed panicked worshippers shouting and pleading for assistance as the crucifix crashed onto the priest. The priest succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death, stating in a social media post that Father Sánchez Molinari, a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, had passed away to "rejoice in His presence and glory." The official statement asked for prayers for his soul and granted him "eternal rest."

Newsweek reported that the cause of the crucifix's collapse remains unknown, with no official explanation provided. It is unclear whether the priest died immediately after the incident or after receiving medical attention.