Tragedy has struck the Big Church Festival in West Sussex, United Kingdom, after a large sign fell onto festivalgoers, killing one person and injuring six others.
The incident occurred on Friday, August 28, at Wiston Park near Steyning, where emergency services were called following reports that a large sign had fallen and injured several people. The man who died has since been identified as Pastor Robert Guanco, a 41 year old pastor from Eastbourne.
Pastor Guanco was reportedly attending the Christian festival when the structure fell. His church described him as a faithful servant of God, a loving husband, and a devoted father who had touched many lives through his ministry.
Six other people were injured in the incident, with four taken to hospital for treatment. Festival organisers expressed their devastation over the tragedy and cancelled the remaining programme, which had been scheduled to continue through Sunday.
The circumstances surrounding the collapse are now under investigation. Sussex Police, the Health and Safety Executive, and local authorities are involved in the investigation, while police have appealed for witnesses and anyone with relevant footage to come forward.
The tragedy has cast a sombre shadow over the Big Church Festival, an annual Christian gathering that brings thousands of people together for worship, music, teaching, and fellowship.
Tributes have continued to emerge for Pastor Guanco, as prayers and condolences are extended to his family, the injured attendees, and everyone affected by the incident.
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