A Roman Catholic priest was killed on Saturday, October 17, 2026, when a large wooden crucifix detached from the wall and fell on him while he was celebrating Mᴀss at a church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The service was being livestreamed, and the sudden accident was captured on video that later circulated widely online.

Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was standing at the altar of the Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church, addressing the congregation, when the heavy cross mounted behind him broke free and toppled forward. The crucifix struck him on the head, knocking him out of view of the camera. Immediate cries of alarm rose from the worshippers present as several people rushed toward the altar to help. The livestream continued broadcasting the chaotic moments that followed.

Emergency services were called to the church, but Father Sánchez Molinari later died from the injuries he sustained. The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death in a statement released the following day. On Sunday, a memorial Eucharist was celebrated in his honor, led by Cardinal Luis Cabrera, the Archbishop of Guayaquil. Church officials expressed deep sorrow and thanked people around the world for the messages of condolence and prayers offered for the priest’s soul.

Father Sánchez Molinari served as the parish priest at the church and was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists), a Catholic religious order founded in the 18th century that maintains a presence in dozens of countries. Some local reports indicated that he had been preparing to lead a wedding ceremony around the time of the service.

Authorities have not publicly detailed the exact reason the crucifix came loose. No official comment from police regarding the structural cause of the fall was available in initial reports. The incident left both those gathered inside the church and viewers watching the livestream in shock.

The sudden and tragic nature of the accident has drawn international attention, with footage of the moment shared across social media platforms. Church leaders have focused on supporting the local community and remembering Father Sánchez Molinari’s service.

Sources :  New York Post