Priest dies after statue of Jesus falls on him during live stream of mass

A Catholic priest has died after a cross fell on him while he was celebrating a mass in Ecuador, which was being broadcast live at the time.

Images widely shared on social media show Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, parish priest of Perpetuo Socorro, addressing his congregation in Guayaquil on Saturday before the crucifix fell on him.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed the death of Father Molinari on Sunday in a message posted on social media: “We announce that our beloved Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, CSsR., who served as parish priest of the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help of the Central Vicariate, has left for the House of the Father to rejoice in his presence and glory.”

“Grant him eternal rest, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”

This is a developing story – more will follow.