Man who admitted to killing New River pastor to be sentenced
New River pastor murder sentencing
Adam Sheafe faces sentencing on Aug. 14 after pleading guilty to the murder of New River pastor Bill Schonemann.
PHOENIX - A man who admitted to killing a New River pastor will learn his fate in court this week.
What we know:
Adam Sheafe pleaded guilty to the April 2025 murder of pastor Bill Schonemann. The 76-year-old was found dead inside his home in what investigators described as a crucifixion-like scene.
Sheafe confessed to the killing and admitted he planned to target 14 pastors across the country. He had originally asked the court to skip trial and be executed.
Sheafe reversed course earlier this year when his father and stepmother died in a plane crash in Marana. In June, he agreed to a deal, pleading guilty to all charges in exchange for a life sentence.
Judge accepts plea deal for man who killed New River pastor
The victim, identified as 76-year-old Pastor Bill Schonemann, was found dead inside his home in late April 2025. Investigators say Schonemann was found in a crucifixion-like position.
What's next:
Sentencing is scheduled for Friday.
Adam Sheafe and William Schonemann
The Source: Information in this report was gathered from court proceedings and previous FOX 10 reporting.