Father Sánchez, 53, was addressing parishioners at the Church of Perpetual Relief in Guayaquil when the heavy crucifix struck the back of his head. Moments earlier, he had reflected on mortality and the importance of spending time with God. Worshippers rushed forward to help. Ecuador’s National Police initially classified his death as accidental, but relatives have called for a thorough investigation into what caused the cross to fall and whether anyone bears responsibility.
Speaking to EWTN News Español, fellow Redemptorist priest Pedro Calle described the profound pain of losing his colleague. He said the crucifix remained largely intact, with damage confined to the leg area, and remembered Sánchez as someone who died doing what he loved. Meanwhile, experts cited by El Comercio have urged scrutiny of possible negligence. That remains a question, not an established finding, as his family seeks answers and his congregation mourns a life devoted to faith.
