Priest Dies After Wooden Cross Falls on Him During Mass in Ecuador

A Catholic priest, Father Patricio Sánchez Molinari, has died after a large wooden cross fell on his head while he was celebrating Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

The incident occurred during a religious service being livestreamed on social media, according to the Associated Press and Ecuadorian newspaper El Universo.

Sánchez Molinari was at the altar when the cross hanging behind him became detached from the wall and struck him on the head.

The Associated Press reported that footage of the service showed “a heavy crucifix detaching from the wall above the altar and striking Sánchez on the head as he celebrated Mass.”

According to the report, the priest did not appear to notice the cross falling, while worshippers cried for help as the livestream continued.

El Universo also reported that the cross fell during a prayer, prompting worshippers to rush to the priest’s aid and call for an ambulance.

The incident was captured on video because the Mass was being transmitted live on social media.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Sánchez Molinari’s death, identifying him as a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic religious order also known as the Redemptorists.

The Associated Press reported that the congregation was founded in 1732 and operates in 80 countries.

In a statement, the Archdiocese expressed solidarity and condolences to the Redemptorist community, as well as the priest’s family and friends.

Sánchez Molinari had previously served for several years at San Lorenzo de Vinces parish, which also mourned his death, according to El Universo.

The circumstances surrounding the cross’s detachment had not been officially established as of the time of reporting.

The Associated Press also reported that local authorities had yet to comment on the incident.