A man has died and at least five others were injured after a large sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival in West Sussex. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, August 28, the opening day of the sold-out three-day event.
Sussex Police confirmed that 41-year-old Robert Guanco, a pastor at Jesus The Living Water Church in Eastbourne, was pronounced dead at the scene. His church described him as 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."
The South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed that five other individuals were treated at the scene, with four transported to local hospitals. Two sustained more serious injuries, and two had less serious injuries. The cause of the collapse has not yet been established, and police are gathering evidence for a joint investigation with Horsham District Council, with the Health and Safety Executive also informed.
Organisers initially cancelled Friday's remaining performances before announcing the entire festival, scheduled to run until Sunday, August 30, had been brought to a close. They stated, "Tonight, that community is grieving. We are heartbroken." The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, expressed her sadness and shock, offering prayers for those affected.