Father Linh Bui, pastor of St. Ann Catholic Church in Elgin, Oklahoma, has died following a critical fall through the church sacristy ceiling late last week.

According to CNA, the 56-year-old priest succumbed to brain and bodily injuries sustained in the fall, prompting the archbishop of Oklahoma City to call for prayers and remember his service.

The accident occurred when Father Bui fell through the ceiling of the sacristy — a room typically used to store sacred vessels and vestments — causing him to suffer life-threatening injuries. The incident unfolded late last week, although the exact day was not disclosed.

Community shocked by sudden and tragic accident

Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene, and Father Bui was transported by MedFlight to the trauma center at Oklahoma University. Upon arrival, he was rushed into surgery in a bid to address the serious trauma he sustained during the fall.

Medical teams discovered multiple critical conditions. In addition to a severe brain injury, he had suffered chest trauma, a collapsed lung, and arterial bleeding. Efforts to stabilize him were immediate and intensive.

However, according to a statement released by the parish on Facebook, his brain injuries were too extensive to allow for any neurological procedure. The teams continued working to keep his body stable long enough for family members to be with him before life-sustaining interventions were withdrawn.

Final moments surrounded by faith and family

Father Bui passed away at the Oklahoma University trauma center surrounded by his loved ones. In accordance with Catholic tradition, he received the anointing of the sick and the apostolic pardon prior to his passing.

Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City publicly confirmed the priest's death on September 19 through a Facebook post. “It is with great sadness that I announce that Father Linh Bui passed away this morning from his injuries,” the archbishop wrote.

Calling for spiritual support, Archbishop Coakley urged the faithful to “please pray for the repose of his soul” and added, “May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”

Pastor remembered for humility and devotion

News of Father Bui’s passing has deeply affected the St. Ann parish community. One parishioner paid tribute to his character, saying he was “one of the holiest people we were blessed to know” and remembered him for his humility and kindness.

Another member of the church shared how Father Bui’s final messages reflected his lasting commitment to faith. Before the accident, the priest had encouraged parishioners to bring others to adoration services, stressing the importance of community worship.

“That is exactly how he lived and what he taught,” the parishioner reflected. “He meant everything to my husband and me, and we will forever carry him in our hearts and in the way we walk with Jesus.”

Funeral arrangements pending after difficult week

At the time of his death, funeral plans for Father Bui had not yet been finalized. Church officials have said announcements will be made at a later date to inform the community.

In the days following the tragedy, members of the congregation gathered virtually and in person to share memories, offer prayers, and support one another through grief.

Father Bui had been serving the Elgin parish as pastor and was widely regarded for his leadership and gentle approach to ministry. His sudden death leaves a significant void for the church and surrounding communities.