The body of Father Pedro Anzoátegui was found near the descent 13 area of Playas in Guayas province, Ecuador, on the morning of the incident. Father Anzoátegui drowned while participating in a retreat with fellow clergy and altar boys. Tragically, during the incident, another priest, Alfonso Avilés from Spain, also lost his life while trying to save one of the altar boys who was struggling in the water.

The drowning incident occurred around 12:15 PM, prompting a search operation by local police and community members. Reports indicate that Father Avilés attempted to rescue an altar boy who was already in distress, and during this attempt, he drowned. It was in the aftermath of this incident that Father Anzoátegui was also swept away by the current, leading to concerted efforts to locate him.

This tragic event has left the community in mourning, especially among the religious circles involved. The deaths of both priests during what was meant to be a spiritual retreat highlight the risks associated with recreational activities near water bodies and the unfortunate outcomes that can arise from rescue efforts gone awry.