Man accused of killing pastor who was found with arms outstretched, ‘similar to a crucifixion’

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. (TCN) — A jury recently indicted a 51-year-old man in connection with the death of a pastor as part of an alleged plot to kill multiple Christian leaders.

According to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, on April 28, two congregation members found William Schonemann dead in his home with his “arms outstretched, similar to a crucifixion.” The victim was reportedly the pastor at New River Bible Chapel.

Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan called the incident a “deeply disturbing crime that profoundly impacted the victim’s family, loved ones, and congregation,” KSAZ-TV reports.

Authorities identified Adam Scheafe as the primary suspect and allege he also broke into a home in Cave Creek two days before Schonemann’s death. Scheafe allegedly stole a truck, which Sedona Police located. Prosecutors said he was “caught the next day after breaking into another home in Sedona.”

According to the attorney’s office, Schonemann’s death was “part of a larger plot by Sheafe to kill 14 Christian leaders around the country.”

On July 18, authorities announced that a jury indicted Sheafe on charges of first-degree murder, attempt to commit first-degree murder, burglary, kidnapping, theft of means of transportation, and criminal trespass.

MORE: