Vietnam veteran and beloved pastor Bill Schonemann was found brutally murdered in his New River, Arizona home, with his arms spread out and hands pinned to the wall.
At a Glance
- William “Pastor Bill” Schonemann, 76, was found dead during a wellness check on April 28, with the medical examiner ruling it a homicide
- Schonemann served as pastor at New River Bible Chapel for 25 years and was a Vietnam veteran who found faith after serving in the Navy
- The victim was discovered with arms spread out and hands pinned to the wall, showing significant injuries
- Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating but has made no arrests, claiming there is no threat to the wider community
- Friends remember him as a skilled mechanic, devoted pastor, and member of the Red Devil’s Hot Rod Club
Gruesome Murder Shocks Quiet Arizona Community
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the death of William “Pastor Bill” Schonemann a homicide, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community of New River, Arizona. Deputies discovered the 76-year-old’s body during a wellness check at approximately 7:30 p.m. on April 28. According to reports, the victim was found with his arms spread out and hands pinned to the wall, with significant injuries. The disturbing scene has left many residents feeling unsafe in what was once considered a peaceful area.
Despite the shocking nature of the crime, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has assured residents there is no threat to the larger community, suggesting the incident was isolated. However, they have not disclosed if a suspect is in custody, a motive for the killing, or specific details about the cause of death. An autopsy was scheduled for May 2, as investigators continue to piece together what happened to the beloved pastor.
From Vietnam Service to Spiritual Leader
Schonemann was a Vietnam War veteran who turned to faith after serving in the Navy. For 25 years, he led the congregation at New River Bible Chapel, becoming a pillar of spiritual support in the community. Beyond his role as pastor, Schonemann was widely known for his mechanical skills and passion for rebuilding vehicles, talents that connected him to many outside his congregation.
Friends and family have emphasized Schonemann’s character, which prioritized love and grace. His ministry approach combined traditional values with genuine care for those in need. In a statement released after his death, his family highlighted both his commitment to faith and his interests outside the church, particularly his work with cars and airplanes, showcasing a man who lived a full and purposeful life.
A Community on Edge
The brutal nature of Schonemann’s death has left many New River residents taking extra security precautions. Some neighbors reported seeing significant police activity around the pastor’s home following the discovery of his body, with authorities initially describing the situation as “suspicious” before confirming it as a homicide investigation.
Fellow members of the Red Devil’s Hot Rod Club, where Schonemann was an active participant, gathered to share memories and express their grief. He was particularly known for his “Bill-built” custom vehicles, showcasing his preference for creating rather than purchasing. Dennis Roeper, who knew Schonemann since 1986, expressed the growing heartbreak as more details about the case emerged, saying he wished his friend had simply “passed away in his sleep” rather than meeting such a violent end.
Investigation Continues
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has stated there are “unique circumstances” to this case but has released limited information as the investigation proceeds. Authorities are seeking information from the public that might help solve the case. For now, the community is left to mourn a man who touched countless lives through both his spiritual guidance and mechanical expertise while awaiting answers about who could have committed such a violent act against a respected elder.
