A 41-year-old individual who died at a Christian music event in West Sussex has been officially identified.

Robert Guanco sustained fatal injuries when a large sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival in the vicinity of Steyning during the afternoon of August 28.

Guanco served as a pastor at Jesus the Living Water Church in Eastbourne, which communicated his death to its congregation through a statement.

Church representatives described him as a devoted servant of God, a caring husband, and a committed father.

Congregation members expressed that they were drawing comfort from their faith, believing Guanco had returned to his eternal rest.

The church established a fundraiser to assist his grieving family with financial support during this challenging period.

Emergency services attended the scene at Wiston Park on Washington Road following reports that a large sign had fallen and caused injuries to multiple people at approximately 3:38pm.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, Guanco, who resided in Eastbourne, was declared dead at the location.

South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed that five additional individuals received medical assessment and treatment at the festival grounds.

Four of those injured were transported to hospital, with two suffering more serious wounds and two experiencing less severe injuries.

The remainder of the festival scheduled to take place in Steyning was subsequently cancelled.

Event organizers issued a statement expressing their devastation and heartbreak over the incident, extending their thoughts to all those affected, including their families, friends, and witnesses.

Sussex Police confirmed they are collaborating with Horsham District Council as part of a joint inquiry into the circumstances.

Officers are also conducting investigations to assist the coroner’s office.

Anyone possessing information or relevant footage has been requested to contact Sussex Police, quoting Operation Igloo.