It was a shocking confession.
Adam Christopher Sheafe, the primary suspect in the killing of Pastor William Schonemann of New River Bible Chapel in Arizona, reportedly confessed to carrying out the murder in a brutal and symbolic manner, stating that he crucified the pastor and placed a crown of thorns on his head. In a disturbing interview with Arizona Family, the 51-year-old claimed he intended to assassinate 14 pastors or priests across the country, accusing them of misleading their congregations.
Sheafe, who was apprehended by authorities in Sedona, claimed he would have gone on to kill four pastors in Arizona alone had he not been stopped. He expressed no remorse over the killing of the 76-year-old pastor and openly declared that, if given the chance, he would destroy every church and execute every pastor in the United States. “If my father gives me authority, I will burn every church and execute every priest,” he said in the interview.
Currently held at the Coconino County Detention Center in Flagstaff, Sheafe faces numerous charges including burglary, resisting arrest, fleeing from law enforcement, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a stolen vehicle. According to Sedona Red Rock News, he is also connected to Pastor Schonemann’s murder and was being investigated by local law enforcement and the FBI.
Authorities say Sheafe’s actions were religiously motivated. He explained that he specifically targeted pastors and priests when they were alone, to avoid harming others. In one instance, he followed a priest to his residence but abandoned the plan after seeing others present. He also described how two pastors evaded him due to his vehicle being disabled following a police chase. Sheafe had reportedly outlined plans to continue his attacks in cities across the U.S., including Las Vegas, Portland, Seattle, and New York.
Schonemann’s body was found in his home on April 28 with signs of violent trauma. Reports from Fox 10 Phoenix indicate that the pastor’s body was discovered in a posture resembling crucifixion, with his arms extended and hands pinned. Despite the brutality of the crime, Sheafe stated he desires a swift execution, believing his actions expose flaws in mainstream Christian teachings. He maintains that God will forgive him, saying, “He is a loving and forgiving God.”