Ariz. pastor found dead in home with his hands pinned to the wall
05/06/2025 12:23 pm PDT
NEW RIVER, Ariz. (TCN) -- Detectives are investigating a suspected homicide after a 76-year-old pastor was found dead in an apparent violent manner.
In a press release shared with "True Crime News," the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office said that on April 28 at around 7:31 p.m., deputies responded to a call on the 1900 block of Calvary Road regarding a deceased elderly male, and when they arrived, they found evidence that made them believe foul play could have been involved. The sheriff's office identified the victim as William Schonemann.
Maricopa County Medical Examiner records show Schonemann's death was listed as a homicide.
According to KSAZ-TV, deputies reportedly discovered Schonemann dead on his bed. His arms were allegedly spread out and his hands were pinned to the wall.
Schonemann was a pastor at New River Bible Chapel and was beloved by his community. One neighbor told Arizona Central that Schonemann, who was known as "Pastor Bill," could usually be seen walking in the neighborhood and enjoyed building pickup trucks.
The neighbor, Eric Asher, said, "Who would do that? Why would anyone hurt Bill? I don’t understand how someone could do something like that. It’s still unfathomable."
The investigation into Schonemann's death remains ongoing.
MORE:
- Press Release - Maricopa County Sheriff's Office
- Disturbing details revealed in New River pastor's homicide case - KSAZ
- 'Why would anyone hurt Bill?': Residents left questioning killing of New River pastor - Arizona Central
