Pope Francis falls, injures arm at residence, Vatican officials say

Pope Francis (R) reads a speech during his weekly general audience in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican on January 8, 2025. (Photo by Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP) (Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)

(LONDON) — Pope Francis fell and injured his arm on Thursday in his residence, the Vatican said.

“This morning, due to a fall at the Santa Marta house, Pope Francis suffered a bruise to his right forearm, without fractures,” the Vatican said in a statement in Italian. “The arm was immobilized as a precautionary measure.”

The pontiff, 88, was seen in a photo released by the Vatican with his arm in what appeared to be a soft sling.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

ABC News’ Joe Simonetti and Helena Skinner contributed to this report.