A Catholic priest has died after a crucifix fell on him while he was celebrating Mass in Ecuador, in a tragic incident captured on a livestream that has since circulated widely on social media.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was celebrating Mass on October 17, 2026, when a large wooden crucifix detached from the wall behind him and struck him near the altar.
Livestream captures tragic moment
The incident happened approximately 27 minutes into the livestream, capturing the sudden collapse and the screams of people inside the church.
Footage of the incident shows the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church priest leading the service moments before the tragedy abruptly interrupted the service.
The Mass was being livestreamed, meaning the tragic incident was captured on camera and subsequently shared widely online.
The available account does not specify what caused the crucifix to fall or provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the priest’s death.
Catholic Church confirms priest’s death
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Father Molinari’s death in a statement published on social media on Sunday.
“We announce that our beloved Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez 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 statement read.
The archdiocese also offered a prayer for the departed priest, asking for eternal rest and perpetual light to shine upon him.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen,” the church added.
The incident has drawn attention online because the priest’s final moments during the service were captured on a livestream.
