A Catholic priest was killed by a falling crucifix during a livestreamed Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador, after the large wooden cross struck him from behind and crushed him against the pulpit.
Rev Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari died on Saturday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help church, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil said.
Footage from the broadcast shows the priest facing the congregation when the crucifix came away from the wall and fell on the back of his head. He collapsed and did not get up again.
As people at the church rushed to respond, voices could be heard shouting: “Father, Father! Call an ambulance!” The livestream then ended.
The service had been broadcast on Father Sánchez Molinari’s social media page, which had more than 4,600 followers. Footage of the accident subsequently spread widely online.
In a statement, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil said the priest “has departed to the House of the Father to enjoy his presence and glory”. It expressed its “solidarity, affection and love” for his family and friends.
