Arizona Pastor’s Murder: Suspect Seeks Death Penalty, Claims Religious Motivation
Adam Sheafe, the 51-year-classic man accused of murdering Pastor William “Bill” Schonemann in New River, Arizona, on April 28, 2025, has repeatedly expressed his desire for the death penalty. Sheafe believes a death sentence would demonstrate “that you cannot kill the son of God,” according to statements made in court and to the media.
Details of the Crime and Investigation
Pastor Schonemann, 76, was discovered dead in his home by two members of his congregation from New River Bible Chapel, who were checking on him. His body was found with his arms outstretched, in a manner resembling crucifixion, and a crown of thorns on his head. Maricopa County Attorney’s Office
Sheafe was indicted in July 2025 on six felony charges, including first-degree murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, first-degree burglary, kidnapping, theft of means of transportation, and criminal trespass. True Crime News
Authorities connected Sheafe to the crime through evidence found at the victim’s home, evidence from a burglary in Cave Creek where a truck was stolen, and items discovered in Sheafe’s backpack and the stolen truck. Maricopa County Attorney’s Office
Suspect’s Statements and Legal Proceedings
Sheafe confessed to the murder in an interview with Arizona’s Family in April 2025, stating, “I drove from Phoenix to Bill’s house, about two in the morning on a Sunday, and executed him.” Law & Crime
Despite initially pleading “no contest,” Sheafe then attempted to plead guilty and accept the death penalty, but the judge rejected both attempts. Law & Crime
Sheafe, who is representing himself, has repeatedly requested to be sentenced to death, arguing that the legal process is unnecessarily prolonged. He stated, “We are dragging this out for the sake of justice. What’s wrong with me? What’s wrong with my family? We want to close this chapter so we can move on with our lives.” Law & Crime
He has asserted that he does not suffer from mental health issues and understands the consequences of his actions. Law & Crime
Broader Plot and Background
Investigators believe Schonemann’s death was part of a larger plot by Sheafe to kill 14 Christian leaders across the country. True Crime News, Maricopa County Attorney’s Office
Chris Sheafe, the defendant’s father, told Arizona’s Family that his son had become deeply interested in the Old Testament and even had a large Hebrew word for God tattooed on his neck.
As of March 21, 2026, Sheafe is due in court on April 24.