Pastor Robert Guanco Killed by Falling Sign at Festival

Robert Guanco, a 41-year-old pastor at the Jesus Living Water church in Eastbourne, East Sussex, has been identified as the individual who died after a large wooden sign fell at a Christian festival on Friday, August 29, 2026. The incident occurred in West Sussex, where the festival was being held. Guanco was described by his church in a tribute posted on Sunday, August 31, 2026, as a respected pastor who had "touched many lives." The tribute further characterized him as a "loving husband" and "a devoted and caring father," highlighting his significant impact on his community and family. The exact circumstances leading to the sign's fall are under investigation, and details regarding the size and nature of the sign have not been extensively released, beyond it being described as "large" and "wooden." The festival, which was a Christian event, drew attendees from various regions, and the tragic accident has cast a somber mood over the event and the wider Christian community. Emergency services were reportedly called to the scene immediately after the incident, but Guanco succumbed to his injuries. The Jesus Living Water church, where Guanco served as pastor, is located in Eastbourne, a coastal town in East Sussex, England. The church's statement emphasized Guanco's dedication to his pastoral duties and his personal relationships. The incident raises questions about site safety and event management protocols at large public gatherings, particularly those involving temporary structures like festival signage. Investigations into the structural integrity of the sign and the conditions under which it was erected are expected to be a key focus. The loss of Pastor Guanco has been met with widespread sadness, with many expressing their condolences online and through church channels. The festival organizers have not yet released a comprehensive statement regarding the incident, but are expected to cooperate fully with any official inquiries. The date of the festival was not explicitly stated beyond "Friday," but the reporting occurred on August 30, 2026, placing the event on August 29, 2026. The church's tribute was issued on August 31, 2026. The specific location within West Sussex where the festival took place has not been detailed in the provided information. The impact of this tragedy on the festival's continuation or future events remains to be seen.