Pastor Dies After Sign Collapse at Big Church Festival
Six others injured, festival cancelled as police and safety officials investigate 'Everything's Unmissable' sign incident.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Carla Rooney
Pastor Robert Guanco, 41, died after a heavy sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival in West Sussex.
Sussex Police and the Health and Safety Executive launched an investigation into the collapse. The Health and Safety Executive and the local authority were informed of the incident.
The fallen sign bore the message 'Everything's Unmissable'. Police are examining whether the structure was properly secured before its collapse, Sussex Police confirmed.
A 'strong gust of wind' is believed to have toppled the sign, Fred Abbott claimed. The Met Office had reportedly warned of windy conditions over the Bank Holiday weekend, with wind speeds up to 27mph recorded in Shoreham, West Sussex.
Pastor Guanco's family has been informed and receives support from specialist officers. Jesus the Living Water Church stated, "Pastor Robert was a faithful servant of God, a loving husband to Isay, a devoted and caring father to Ellie, and a blessing to so many people whose lives he touched. His life, his faith, his love, and his service to God will never be forgotten."
A fundraising page has been established by the church for his wife Isaeli and daughter Ellie. Go-fund-me page organizers said, "His passing is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him."
His passing is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
The page is hoped to help his family deal with their “unimaginable loss” and “the practical and financial challenges that come with such an unexpected tragedy,” according to the organizers.
Dame Sarah Mullally offered prayers for the grieving family, friends, and loved ones, as well as for those receiving treatment and the healthcare workers attending to them. She also extended prayers to the other festivalgoers, staff, and event organizers as they process these tragic events.
Richard McDonagh stated, "Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the man who died and all others who have been affected by this tragic incident."