Priest Killed by Falling Crucifix During Livestreamed Mass in Ecuador
A Catholic priest in Guayaquil died Saturday when a large crucifix dislodged from a wall and fell on him during a livestreamed Mass.
A Catholic priest in Ecuador was killed after a large crucifix toppled onto him during a livestreamed Mass. The incident occurred Saturday at the Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, the country's largest city.
Father Sánchez Molinari was addressing parishioners and those watching online when the heavy wooden crucifix, mounted on the wall above the altar, fell on him approximately 30 minutes into the service. Video footage of the event captured screams from the congregation as they called for an ambulance.
Emergency services responded to the scene, but the priest was pronounced dead later that day. The Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, to which Father Sánchez belonged, confirmed his death in a statement, noting he had "departed to the Father’s House to enjoy His presence and His glory."
It remains unclear what caused the crucifix to fall. Church officials have not yet provided an explanation for the accident. Father Sánchez Molinari was a parish priest at the Perpetual Help church and was part of a religious order founded in 1732 with a global presence.
