WARNING [DISTURBING FOOTAGE] – Priest Dead After Large Crucifix Crushes Him During Livestreamed Mass

Catholic priest Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was killed when a crucifix fell on him during a service in Ecuador. Congregants tried to help, but he died from his injuries. pic.twitter.com/u2b4DaZPok

— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) October 18, 2026

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“Father, Father … call an ambulance”, a female member of the congregation is heard screaming in the video.

More worshippers were heard screaming for help as the live broadcast continued on social media.

Emergency services were scrambled to Perpetuo Socorro Church, but the priest was declared dead later that same day.

“We announce that our beloved Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, who served as parish priest of the Perpetual Help church in the Central Vicariate, has departed to the Father’s House to enjoy His presence and His glory,” the church said in a statement.

Father Sánchez belonged to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic religious order founded in 1732 with a presence in 80 countries.

It is unclear what caused the heavy crucifix to fall from the wall, and church officials haven’t publicly provided an explanation for the incident.

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A Catholic Mass in Ecuador turns deadly in seconds when a large wooden crucifix falls from behind the altar, striking a priest as he prepares Communion.

Worshippers scream and rush toward Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari inside a church in Guayaquil, with one woman… pic.twitter.com/umSmNK8v1E

— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 18, 2026

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Before serving in Guayaquil, he spent several years as parish priest at San Lorenzo in Vinces, in Ecuador’s Los Ríos province, according to Primicias.

His former parish mourned his death in a social media tribute, remembering the dedication and pastoral love he brought to its community, El Universo reported.

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