5 disturbing claims from suspect in crucifixion-style killing of Arizona pastor

By Ian M. Giatti, Christian Post Reporter
Friday, June 27, 2025

Adam Sheafe, the suspect in the killing of Arizona pastor Bill Schonemann, speaks during an interview with Arizona Family's Briana Whitney. | YouTube/Briana Whitney

4. Previously followed another priest home and was going to kill

Sheafe said that when he got to Phoenix, he set up a tent under a tree on Olive Street. He said he followed another priest home after Easter service.

"When he pulled into his driveway, two women came out of the garage," Sheafe said. "I'm not interested in executing anyone other than the pastors or the shepherds leading the flock astray."

"Then I said to myself, I need to find pastors or priests that live alone," he continued. "So I set up another tent off of Carefree Highway between 24th and 16th Street. I was looking at those churches. Then, I stumbled across New River Church."

The suspect stated that he followed Schonemann home and observed that he lived alone, indicating he had no prior contact with him.

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