Pastor found dead in New River; homicide investigation underway
NEW RIVER, Ariz. - Maricopa County Sheriff's Office deputies are investigating the death of a man from New River who was a well-known pastor.
Investigators called his April 28 death "suspicious" and have upgraded the investigation to a homicide.
A line of Maricopa County Sheriff's Office vehicles line the street in New River.
What we know:
Deputies say they responded to the call of a deceased elderly man on the evening of April 28 at around 7:30 p.m.
The victim was identified as 76-year-old William Schonemann, who is a known pastor at New River Bible Chapel.
New River homicide: Pastor identified as victim
William Schonemann, a 76-year-old pastor at New River Bible Chapel, was found dead on Monday night. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office says his death is being investigated as a homicide.
Countless resources are being poured into the investigation as law enforcement vehicles were seen for hours lining the roads near the intersection of 13th Avenue and Circle Mountain Road.
Yellow crime scene tape circled around the property northeast of Anthem.
Deputies are still keeping most details close to the chest, and MCSO described the scene as "complicated."
The agency said it cannot share the manner of death, nor any information on a possible suspect or motive.
There were also several sheriff's deputy vehicles with investigators surrounding the nearby church outside the doors.
William Schonemann, who is a known pastor at New River Bible Chapel, was found dead on April 28. (KSAZ-TV; Randall Schonemann)
What they're saying:
This is the type of community where people look out for each other, and the type of community where people keep their doors and cars unlocked.
"My reaction is really, horror, because it sounds so terrible, he’s a minister, and it’s close to where we live," a neighbor named Carol Mathews said. "Whenever there is a potential murderer running around, I’m not too comfortable, but I can understand why they wouldn’t share. I think they will find him, but there is a reason why this person did it, and that’s what they need to find out."
Another neighbor, Emily Brean, said, "I was shocked. Like what? In New River? No. This type of stuff happens in Phoenix."
Schonemann, known as Pastor Bill, is remembered as a kind man who always had time to talk, especially about vehicles.
That's how Bernie Cassidy met him.
"A first-class gentleman. Was cordial all the time," Cassidy said. "Always nice to me. I'd walk over there, and we'd just chat about cars and trucks and airplanes."
He says he's shocked by the news.
"I'm just really stunned that somebody would murder him," he said.
Fellow pastor mourns Schonemann
Pastor Bryan of CrossRoads Christian Fellowship said to FOX 10, "I did not know Pastor Bill very well. The few times I talked with him he was very kind.
I know he will be missed by his family, congregation and this community. I have only heard good things of Pastor Bill we are praying for all those who are affected by this tragedy."
Family releases statement
"Our Dad had such a positive impact on people everywhere he went," Schonemann's son said in a statement to FOX 10. "We will miss the loving guidance and patience. The happiness he showed just getting to walk around an airport getting his steps in. The creativity of all machines he built. There are never enough words to say it all or to say it as well as a person would like. Simpliy [sic], He is missed."