A Catholic priest has died after a large crucifix fell on him while he was celebrating mass in a church in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with the incident captured during a livestream of the service.

The priest, Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, was addressing worshippers on Saturday when the crucifix suddenly fell and struck him on the head.

Footage of the incident has circulated widely on social media, showing the moment the religious structure came crashing down on the priest as he conducted the service.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death on Sunday in a social media statement, describing him as a priest who served at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate.

“We announce that our beloved Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, CSsR., who served as parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate, has departed for the Father’s House to rejoice in His presence and glory.”

The archdiocese also paid tribute to the late priest with a prayer for his eternal rest.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”

The circumstances surrounding the crucifix’s fall remain unclear, as authorities have yet to provide an official explanation for the incident.

It is also unknown whether structural damage or faulty fittings contributed to the accident. (Newsweek)