A Catholic priest has died in Ecuador after a wooden crucifix fell from a church wall and struck him while he was celebrating Mass.
The incident occurred on Saturday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil, where the priest, identified as Father Patricio Sanchez, was leading the religious service.
Footage from the church’s livestream captured the moments surrounding the accident, with worshippers heard shouting for help as the crucifix fell and pinned the priest against the pulpit.
“Father, Father! Call an ambulance!” people at the church could be heard shouting before the livestream abruptly ended.
The video later circulated widely on social media on Sunday and was shared by several news outlets, drawing attention to the tragic incident.
Following his death, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil issued a statement mourning the priest and expressing sympathy for those affected by the loss.
The archdiocese also extended its “solidarity, affection and love” to Sanchez’s family and friends as they grieve his death.
