Pastor died from injuries when arch fell at festival – inquest

Pastor died from injuries when arch fell at festival – inquest

A tragic incident occurred at a Christian gathering in West Sussex, where a large wooden arch collapsed, resulting in the death of a pastor. The inquest opening revealed that Robert Guanco, aged 41, sustained multiple severe injuries due to the falling structure. Guanco was a pastor at Jesus the Living Water Church located in Eastbourne, East Sussex, and was present at the Big Church Festival near Steyning on August 28.

During proceedings at Woodvale Coroner’s Court in Brighton, it was reported that Guanco suffered blunt force trauma alongside other serious injuries. Following a post-mortem examination, the provisional cause of death was recorded as “1a multiple severe injuries and 1b blunt force trauma.” The event also left six other individuals injured, with four needing hospital treatment.

Isaeli Guanco, Robert’s widow, spoke after the hearing, expressing her hope that uncovering the facts surrounding her husband’s death would aid the family in their grieving process. She emphasized the desire to prevent similar tragedies from affecting other families in the future. She also shared the emotional impact of losing Robert so suddenly, noting the stark contrast between preparing for their daughter’s birthday and planning his funeral.

Coroner Joseph Turner extended his “sincere condolences” to the family before adjourning the inquest, with a pre-inquest review scheduled for March 9. Isaeli described the deep pain she is enduring, highlighting the profound challenge posed by such an unexpected loss

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