*GUAYAQUIL, Ecuador* — A solemn religious service turned into a shocking tragedy in Guayaquil when a heavy wooden cross suddenly detached from the altar and collapsed directly onto a Catholic priest during a live-streamed mass.
The incident occurred at the Perpetual Help church (iglesia Perpetuo Socorro) in Guayaquil. Father Patricio Sánchez was officiating the ceremony when the massive structure unexpectedly gave way, striking him instantly in front of parishioners and those watching the broadcast online.
The shocking moment was entirely captured by the church’s live-stream cameras, prompting rapid dissemination of the footage across social media platforms. Local churchgoers and online communities expressed widespread shock and sorrow over the sudden accident.
Shortly after the incident, the Archdiocese confirmed the passing of Father Sánchez as a result of the impact. Local authorities and church officials are reviewing the structural integrity of the altar fixtures to determine the exact cause of the sudden collapse.
