AZ - Disturbing details revealed in New River Pastor Bill Schonemann's homicide case - 28 April 2025

[Knox]

Law enforcement has been tight-lipped since the initial call on Monday, April 28, but the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office confirms the death of the pastor, Bill Schonemann -76, was a homicide.

What we know:
Multiple sources say he was found on the bed with his arms spread out and hands pinned to the wall. He also appeared to have significant injuries.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office isn't saying much, and will not confirm if a suspect is in custody, or reveal any official cause of death or a motive.

Disturbing details revealed in New River pastor's homicide case

We have new details about the murder of a New River pastor, and we want to warn you that these details are disturbing.

www.fox10phoenix.com

 

[Knox]

Neighbors tell ABC15 they knew the man as Pastor Bill, who led service at New River Bible Chapel for decades.

People that knew Pastor Bill described him as a “true pastor” and a loving father. Friends and congregation members told us he was a veteran who loved to work on cars and even planes.

“My heart just dropped,” said former congregation member Zane Sharpe. “It dropped to my core. Like what a sweet guy, a pastor too. Everyone holds pastors in high esteem, but this guy truly lived what he spoke.”

Medical Examiner: Death of New River pastor ruled a homicide

At about 7:30 p.m. Monday, Maricopa County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a home located near 20th Street and Calvary Road for reports of a deceased elderly man.

www.abc15.com