Priest dies after cross falls on his head during live broadcast of a mass in Ecuador; VIDEO

A priest died after a wooden cross fell on him during mass in a church in Guayaquil, Ecuador, on Saturday (16). The accident happened while the celebration was broadcast live on the priest's profile and ended up being recorded on cameras.

The structure was behind the altar when it came loose and fell toward Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, who was leading the ceremony. The images show the cross falling on the area where he was. After the accident, faithful who attended the mass mobilized to provide help.

The death of Sánchez Molinari was confirmed by the Archdiocese of Guayaquil, which published a message of condolence.

"We inform you that our dear Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, who served as pastor of the Perpétuo Socorro church, in Vigararia Centro, left for the Father's House to enjoy his presence and his glory. Grant him, Lord, eternal rest", says a message published on a profile on the archdiocese's social networks.

"The Archdiocese of Guayaquil unites in prayer for the eternal rest of his soul and expresses its solidarity, affection and affection to the Redemptorist family, his family and friends", shows the farewell card published by the profile with an image of the priest.

The religious was part of the Congregation of the Holy Redeemer, known as Redemptorists.

In a note, the congregation expressed solidarity with family, friends and other members of the order. The institution did not, however, provide details about the accident or the cause of the priest's death.

The video of the moment the cross fell began to be shared on social media and gained repercussions among internet users.

There is still no official explanation as to why the structure came loose. There was also no conclusive information released about how the cross was attached to the wall.