A Catholic priest in Guayaquil, Ecuador, dies after a large wooden crucifix falls on him during a live-streamed Mass. Multiple outlets report that Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was celebrating the service when the wall-mounted cross detached and crashed down onto him, with video capturing the moment and the immediate aftermath.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirms his death in a statement published on social media, saying the priest has “departed for the Father’s House” and urging prayers for his Redemptorist congregation, family and friends. Reports identify him as a parish priest at the Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church and note his membership in the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.
Outlets differ mainly in wording and emphasis. Some stress the viral nature of the livestream clip, while others focus on the reported timing of the incident during the service and the setting at the altar. None of the sources provide official details on why the crucifix fell or what safety measures were in place.
