Ecuadorian priest killed after crucifix falls during live-streamed mass
A crucifix detached above the altar and struck Patricio Sánchez during an evening service that was streamed live.
An Ecuadorian priest died after a heavy crucifix detached from the wall above the altar and struck him during an evening mass that was being live-streamed, church authorities said.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil identified the priest as Patricio Sánchez, who served at the Perpetuo Socorro church in southwestern Ecuador.
Footage shows the crucifix falling during the service
Video of the service circulated on social media and shows the large crucifix separating from its mount and hitting Sánchez on the head while he continued to officiate the mass. He appears not to have been aware the crucifix was coming loose before it struck him.
Worshippers called for help as the broadcast continued. Local authorities have not commented on the incident.
Sánchez was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic order founded in 1732. Further details about his age, the time of death and any investigation into the cause of the fixture’s detachment were not immediately available.
Photo: skrinshot)
