The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death on Sunday. A Catholic priest in Ecuador has died after a large crucifix fell on him as he led a Mass that was being livestreamed. Video of the moment has spread widely on social media.
The incident happened in front of worshippers and was captured on a livestream. https://t.co/0ia3NKTsjG On Sunday, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Father Sanchez Molinari’s death in a social media post. Father Patricio Alfredo Sanchez Molinari, the church’s parish priest, was addressing the congregation when the crucifix came down on him. A priest was killed in Ecuador after a massive cross collapsed on him during services. It read, “We announce that our beloved Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sanchez Molinari, CSsR., who served as parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate, has departed for the Father’s House to rejoice in His presence and glory.”
The incident took place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Nuestra Senora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil.
