A Roman Catholic priest celebrating an evening Mass in southwestern Ecuador has died after a crucifix fell on him during the livestreamed service.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil, a coastal city 265km southwest of the capital Quito, identified the priest as Patricio Sánchez of Perpetuo Socorro Church.
Footage of the service on Saturday night shows a heavy wooden cross detaching from the wall above the altar and striking Sánchez on the head as he celebrated Mass.
Sign up to The Nightly’s newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.
He did not appear to see it falling.
Worshippers cried for help as the social media broadcast continued.
Those present can be heard desperately calling out: “Father, Father! Call an ambulance!”.
Local authorities have not commented on the incident.
Sánchez belonged to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic religious order founded in 1732 with a presence in 80 countries.
