An Ecuadorian Catholic priest has died after a large crucifix fell on him during a livestreamed Mass at a church in Guayaquil.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was leading the service at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Saturday when the wooden cross mounted behind the altar suddenly detached and struck him near the altar.
The collapse happened about 27 minutes into the online broadcast, as the priest was addressing worshippers. The service stopped abruptly as people inside the church rushed to help.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death on Sunday, offering condolences to his loved ones and members of the religious community.
Father Sánchez Molinari was the church’s parish priest and a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.
Church officials have not said what caused the heavy crucifix to come loose from the wall.
