Catholic Priest Dies After Crucifix Falls During Mass

A Catholic priest in Ecuador has died after a large crucifix fell on his head while he was celebrating Mass at a church in Guayaquil.

The priest, identified as Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, was leading the service at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Saturday, October 17, when the heavy crucifix mounted on the wall behind him suddenly detached and struck him.

The incident was captured during a livestream of the service. Footage showed worshippers crying out for help and rushing towards the priest following the impact.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death in a statement on Sunday, expressing sorrow over the loss and offering prayers for his soul and condolences to his loved ones.

Father Sánchez was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Catholic religious order also known as the Redemptorists.