Priest Dies After Crucifix Falls During Live-Streamed Mass in Ecuador
A Catholic priest, Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, died after a large wooden crucifix fell from a wall during a livestreamed Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Church officials confirmed the incident and mourned his passing.
What happened
- Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was conducting a livestreamed Mass at Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador, when a large wooden crucifix fell from a wall behind the altar and struck him on the head.
- Video footage captured the event, showing the priest standing at the altar facing the congregation when the crucifix detached and fell directly onto him.
- Parishioners reacted with screams and rushed to assist him.
- The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death, stating he had departed for the Father’s House.
- Father Molinari had previously served as parish priest in San Lorenzo in Vinces, Los Ríos province, and was part of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.
- During his last religious service, he spoke to the congregation about dedicating time to God and loved ones, rather than focusing on work and financial worries.
- The cause of the crucifix falling remains unclear, and church officials had not publicly provided an explanation.
Original reporting
- Fox News: Priest killed by falling crucifix during livestreamed Mass as worshippers rush to help
2026-10-18T21:00:55+00:00 - GB News: Ecuador news: Priest dies after crucifix falls on him during livestreamed mass
2026-10-19T00:09:45+00:00 - South China Morning Post: Falling crucifix kills priest during live-streamed mass in Ecuador
2026-10-18T20:13:49+00:00