Judge accepts plea deal for man who killed New River pastor
PHOENIX - A judge has accepted a plea deal for a man who admitted to killing a New River pastor in 2025.
What we know:
Under the deal, prosecutors will not seek the death penalty against Adam Sheafe in the murder of Pastor Bill Schonemann.
The backstory:
Schonemann, who was 76 years old, was found dead inside his home in late April of 2025. Investigators say he was found in a crucifixion-like position.
Sheafe, who has been representing himself in court, previously asked the state to skip trial and execute him, but that changed after a personal tragedy. His father and stepmother died in a plane crash in Marana earlier this year. The couple had been returning from a University of Arizona Final Four game when their plane burst into flames.
After their deaths, Sheafe sent a letter to prosecutors asking for a plea deal. He agreed to plead guilty to all charges in exchange for a life sentence. Authorities say Sheafe claimed he committed the killing because of radical religious beliefs and had plans to kill other pastors.
What's next:
Sheafe's sentencing is Aug. 18.
The Source: Information for this article was gathered by FOX 10 staff members.