Ecuadorian priest dies after altar cross falls on him during Mass

Monday, October 19, 2026 -Tragedy has struck the Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil, Ecuador, as a priest died after a crucifix fell on him.

The incident happened when the priest, Rev Fr Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, was celebrating the Holy Mass.

The priest was being live-streamed when the incident occurred.

The video of the incident showed the cleric addressing his congregation in Guayaquil before the crucifix fell on him.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed the incident 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.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen," the Archdiocese said.