A Catholic priest in Ecuador, Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, has died after a crucifix fell on him while he was celebrating Mass in the city of Guayaquil.
The incident occurred on Saturday while the service was being streamed live, with footage later circulating widely on social media showing the moment the priest was addressing worshippers before the religious object fell on him.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death in a statement published on Sunday, mourning the priest, who served at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate.
The archdiocese expressed grief over his death and prayed for the repose of his soul.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen,” the statement read.