Arizona Pastor Murdered in Crucifixion-Style Killing; Killer Requests Death Penalty
In a shocking and brutal case that has rocked the community of New River, Arizona, a man has admitted to murdering a beloved pastor in a manner described as "similar to crucifixion." Adam Sheafe, 51, faces multiple charges including first-degree murder for the killing of Pastor William Schonemann, 76, and has made an unusual plea for the death penalty to speed up the legal proceedings.
Discovery of the Crime
Pastor William Schonemann was found dead in his home on April 28, 2025, by concerned members of his congregation from New River Bible Chapel. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office reported that the pastor's body had been positioned with his arms outstretched, evoking imagery of a crucifixion. This distressing detail has added a layer of horror to an already heinous crime.
Suspect and Charges
Adam Sheafe was identified as the prime suspect through evidence recovered from Pastor Schonemann's residence. He has been charged with a litany of offenses, including:
- First-degree murder
- Second-degree burglary
- First-degree burglary
- Kidnapping
- Theft of means of transportation
- Second-degree criminal trespass
- Three counts of attempt to commit first-degree murder
Authorities have linked Sheafe to a broader, chilling plot targeting 14 Christian leaders across the United States, though details remain under investigation.
Courtroom Drama and Unusual Request
During a court appearance, Sheafe attempted to plead "no contest" to the charges, but prosecutors rejected this, noting that such pleas are typically reserved for defendants who cannot recall their crimes due to intoxication or other impairments. Sheafe then shifted to a guilty plea and astonishingly requested the death penalty, urging the court to expedite the process so that all parties could "move on with our lives."
In a lengthy statement, Sheafe acknowledged the heinous nature of his crime, citing the victim's age and the brutality of the act as aggravating factors. He stated, "It's an undisputable fact that the crime was heinous in nature. I intended it to be heinous." Sheafe emphasized his lack of mitigating factors and expressed frustration over the prolonged legal timeline, which has stretched from an initial five-month period to over two and a half years.
Confession and Media Involvement
Sheafe claimed to have provided a full confession to the FBI and referenced multiple interviews with various media outlets. He argued that the drawn-out proceedings were unjust, questioning, "What about the victim's families? What about me? What about my family? We want closure so we can move on with our lives." Despite his requests for a bench trial and the death penalty, both were denied by the court. Sheafe is representing himself and is scheduled to return to court on April 24.
Additional Crimes and Evidence
The investigation revealed that Sheafe is also accused of breaking into a home in Cave Creek, Arizona, approximately 20 miles from New River, and stealing a pickup truck. This vehicle was allegedly used in a burglary captured on video. Sheafe was apprehended the following day after another break-in. Detectives from the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office connected Sheafe to Pastor Schonemann's murder through evidence from the pastor's home, the Cave Creek burglary, the stolen truck, and items found in Sheafe's rucksack.
Community Impact
Pastor Schonemann was remembered by neighbours, friends, and loved ones as a friendly and kind individual who resided in an area known for its safety, where residents often left their doors unlocked. The violent nature of his death has left the community in mourning and disbelief. Sheafe's admission included not only the murder but also crucifying the body to a wall and placing a crown of thorns on the pastor's head, further intensifying the tragedy.
As the case progresses, the legal system continues to navigate the complexities of Sheafe's requests and the severe charges against him, with the next court date set for late April.
