Priest’s Tragic Death During Livestreamed Mass in Ecuador

Rev. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, a Catholic priest, tragically passed away Saturday in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The incident occurred when a wooden crucifix fell from the wall and crushed him against the pulpit during a livestreamed Mass. The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death.

During the Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help church, attendees were heard shouting for help before the broadcast was cut short. The priest’s Facebook page, with over 4,600 followers, hosted the livestream. The video captured the moment the crucifix fell onto Sánchez’s head. He collapsed to the ground and did not rise again.

The graphic video of the accident gained widespread attention on social media, drawing coverage from various news outlets. In a social media post, the Archdiocese shared that Sánchez “has departed to the House of the Father to enjoy his presence and glory.” The statement expressed the archdiocese’s deep sorrow and extended “solidarity, affection, and love” to Sánchez’s family and friends.

The priest was part of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic religious order with origins in 1732 and active in 80 countries. Local authorities have not made any comments regarding the incident.

Rev. Sánchez’s untimely death has left the community in mourning and reflecting on his contributions and service.