A Catholic priest in Ecuador has died after a massive wooden crucifix fell on him while he was conducting Mass, in a horrifying incident captured during a live church broadcast.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was officiating a service at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil on Saturday evening, October 17, 2026, when the large crucifix mounted behind the altar suddenly detached and struck him.
Footage from the livestream shows the priest standing before the congregation moments before the structure collapsed. Shocked worshippers immediately rushed to his assistance, with several desperately calling for an ambulance.
Despite efforts to help him, Father Sánchez died from his injuries.
In a particularly poignant detail, the priest had spoken about mortality during his final sermon, reminding worshippers that everyone would eventually die and encouraging them to devote meaningful time to God and their families.
The tragedy occurred just one day after the Church had acknowledged his priestly anniversary.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil subsequently confirmed his death, expressing condolences to his relatives, friends and the Redemptorist religious community to which he belonged.
Father Sánchez had served the Catholic Church for several years, including previous pastoral work in Vinces, Ecuador.
The shocking footage has since circulated internationally, prompting expressions of grief and disbelief.
The precise reason the crucifix became detached has not yet been publicly established.