A jury has indicted Adam Scheafe, 51, in the death of Pastor William Schonemann, which occurred on April 28, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. Schonemann, leader of New River Bible Chapel Church, was found by two parishioners in his home with his arms outstretched in a position reminiscent of a crucifixion, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office said. Sheriff Jerry Sheridan called the scene a “deeply disturbing crime that significantly affected the victim’s family, loved ones and congregation.”
Subsequent investigations revealed that Scheafe, in addition to the first-degree murder charge, was linked to a much larger scheme: he allegedly aimed to assassinate 14 Christian leaders in several U.S. locations.
Chronology of the case
April 26: Scheafe breaks into a Cave Creek residence and steals a pickup truck.
April 27: Van arrested in Sedona after another raid.
April 28: Pastor Schonemann is found dead and crucified in Phoenix, Arizona.
July 18: Jury indicts Scheafe for multiple felonies.
Charges Scheafe faces
On July 18, 2025, the jury returned an indictment that includes the following charges:
Murder in the first degree
Attempted murder in the first degree
Breaking and entering
Kidnapping
Vehicle theft
Unlawful entry to private property
Schonemann was found by two parishioners in his home with his arms outstretched
QuéOnnda.com
These allegations reflect the seriousness of the case and the apparent pattern of violent behavior that Scheafe allegedly followed.
What this case involves
Buzzy
The murder of this pastor in Arizona has shocked both the Christian community and those concerned about the safety of religious leaders in the U.S.
Authorities are warning that there may be ideological motivations behind the plot to murder multiple ministers.
Although prosecutors are still expected to present more evidence at trial.
In legal terms, the charges include crimes with severe penalties, especially in Arizona, where first-degree murder and kidnapping can carry life imprisonment.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
