The short version
- Robert Guanco, a pastor from Eastbourne, died after a heavy sign collapsed on him at the Big Church festival near Steyning.
- Six other attendees were injured in the incident, with four requiring hospital treatment as emergency services responded to the scene.
- Festival organizers halted all remaining events and are cooperating with police and safety regulators to determine the cause of the collapse.
A tragic accident at a major religious gathering in southern England has resulted in one death and multiple injuries, casting a shadow over what was billed as the United Kingdom’s largest Christian festival. Robert Guanco, a 41-year-old pastor from Eastbourne, died on Friday after a large wooden sign structure fell upon him at the Big Church festival near Steyning in West Sussex. The incident occurred during the opening day of the three-day event, which typically draws thousands of attendees for worship services, musical performances, and community activities.
The collapse happened when strong winds blew over the overhead signage, which bore the phrase “Everything’s Unmissable.” Witnesses reported that festivalgoers immediately rushed to help lift the heavy wooden structure off those trapped beneath it. While Guanco succumbed to his injuries, six other people were hurt in the fall. Four of these individuals were transported to hospitals for treatment, while the condition of the remaining two was not specified in initial reports. The swift response from bystanders highlights the chaotic and urgent nature of the scene as attendees attempted to mitigate the damage.
Guanco was a respected figure within his local community and religious circle. Jesus Living Water church in Eastbourne, where he served as a pastor, issued a heartfelt tribute describing him as a loving husband to Isay and a devoted father to their daughter, Ellie. The church characterized Guanco as a faithful servant whose life was defined by humility, compassion, and service to others. Through a fundraising campaign established to support his grieving family, the congregation emphasized the profound impact he had on those around him, noting that his kindness and encouragement touched many lives.
The emotional toll of the incident extended beyond Guanco’s immediate circle. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, expressed shock and sadness at the news, offering prayers for Guanco’s family, friends, and the injured attendees. She also extended her thoughts to healthcare workers treating the victims and to festival staff and organizers who were grappling with the sudden tragedy. Her statement underscored the widespread sense of loss felt across religious communities following the unexpected turn of events.
In response to the accident, organizers of the Big Church festival made the difficult decision to cancel all remaining scheduled activities for the weekend. The event, which first launched in 2009, had been planned to run through Sunday but was shut down early to prioritize safety and allow for an investigation. Organizers released a statement expressing devastation over the loss of life and injuries, emphasizing that their primary focus was on supporting those affected by the incident. They acknowledged the immense grief experienced by Guanco’s family and church community.
Authorities have launched a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. Sussex Police, led by Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh, are working alongside the Health and Safety Executive to establish how the sign failed and what factors contributed to the accident. Investigators are urging anyone who was present at the festival on Friday to come forward with information or video footage that could aid in reconstructing the timeline of events. The cooperation between law enforcement and safety regulators aims to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the failure.
The incident has raised questions about safety protocols for large-scale outdoor events, particularly regarding structural integrity during adverse weather conditions. While specific details about the sign’s installation or maintenance history have not been released, the involvement of the Health and Safety Executive suggests a rigorous examination of compliance standards. The festival organizers stated they are fully cooperating with these efforts to determine the root cause and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families. The GoFundMe campaign initiated by Jesus Living Water church seeks to provide financial assistance to Guanco’s loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable loss. Meanwhile, the broader festival community is left to process the abrupt end to what was intended to be a celebration of faith and music. The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the risks inherent in large public gatherings and the importance of robust safety measures.
The cancellation of the remaining festival days has disrupted plans for thousands of attendees who had traveled from across the country and beyond. Many were alerted to the severity of the situation only when live streams of the event were paused due to unforeseen circumstances. The sudden halt in programming left organizers scrambling to manage logistics and provide information to confused and concerned participants. As the dust settles, the priority is ensuring that all injured individuals receive adequate care and that justice is served through a transparent investigation.
This incident marks a dark chapter for the Big Church festival, an event known for its positive atmosphere and community spirit. The loss of Pastor Robert Guanco is deeply felt by his congregation and the wider religious community in Sussex. As authorities continue their work, the hope is that lessons will be learned to enhance safety standards for future events. Until then, the memory of Guanco’s service and kindness remains a focal point for those mourning his untimely death.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- The Guardian US↗Man killed by falling sign at Christian festival named as church pays tribute
