Guayaquil (Ecuador), October 19; The Freedom Press: A Catholic priest died after a large wooden crucifix fell on his head while he was conducting a Mass at a church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The tragic incident occurred on the night of October 17 and was captured during a live broadcast of the religious service.
The deceased was identified as Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, also known as Perpetuo Socorro.
According to reports, the priest was leading the service when the large crucifix mounted on the wall behind him suddenly detached and struck him on the head, knocking him to the ground. The incident occurred while the Mass was being streamed live on social media, and the footage later circulated widely online.
Churchgoers were left shocked as they rushed to help the priest, with some calling for an ambulance. Despite the emergency response, he could not be saved.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Father Patricio’s death and expressed condolences to his family, fellow priests and the Redemptorist religious community, of which he was a member.
The exact reason for the crucifix falling has not been officially established. The incident has left the local Catholic community mourning the loss of the priest. (eom)
