The death of a Catholic priest in Ecuador after a heavy wooden crucifix fell on him during a livestreamed Mass has sparked online discussions, including unverified claims linking the tragedy to financial misconduct.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari died on Saturday, October 17, 2026, after the large crucifix detached from the wall behind the altar and struck him on the head while he was celebrating Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The incident occurred at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church and was captured during a live broadcast on social media. Footage showed the crucifix falling on the priest as worshippers screamed and rushed to help him.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death, expressing sorrow over the loss of the priest, who belonged to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists.
“We inform you that our brother Fr Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, CSsR, who served as parish priest of the Church of Perpetual Help, Central Vicariate, has departed to the House of the Father to enjoy His presence and His glory,” read the statement in part.
“The Archdiocese of Guayaquil joins in prayer for the eternal rest of his soul and expresses its solidarity, affection and love to the Redemptorist family, to his relatives and friends. Rest in peace.”
Claims about Ksh259 million theft
Following the incident, claims circulated online alleging that Father Sánchez had stolen $2 million (Ksh259 million) in church donations, with some social media users suggesting his death was a form of divine punishment.
However, the allegations have not been substantiated by credible reporting available at the time of publication. No verified evidence has been presented to establish that the priest stole the alleged amount.
The reported circumstances of his death also do not establish any connection between the accident and alleged financial misconduct.
What caused the crucifix to fall?
According to reports, the heavy crucifix detached from the wall above the altar while Father Sánchez was conducting the service.
The footage showed the priest facing the congregation and apparently unaware that the structure was falling behind him.
Worshippers could be heard calling for help as they rushed to assist him. The broadcast continued briefly before the video was taken down.
As of the latest available reports, the reason the crucifix detached remains unclear. Local authorities had not publicly commented on the incident, and no official findings establishing the cause had been reported.
