Father Patricio Sanchez died after a large wooden cross fell from the wall, striking him while he was conducting Mass at a church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The incident was broadcast live before spreading widely on social media.
On 17 October 2026, a tragic event occurred inside the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador, when a wooden cross mounted on the wall fell onto Father Patricio Sanchez during Mass, resulting in his death.
The live broadcast of the Mass captured the sound of attendees shouting for help and calling for an ambulance before the live feed was cut off. Later that Sunday, the footage quickly circulated on social media and was disseminated by multiple news agencies.
Following the tragic incident, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil released a statement expressing sorrow over Father Sanchez's death and offering condolences and support to his family and friends.
Source: AFP