COCONINO COUNTY, Ariz. — A man accused of murdering a pastor in New River has confessed to the crime during a jailhouse interview, revealing disturbing plans for further violence against religious leaders across the country. Adam Sheafe, who is currently in custody, admitted to killing Pastor William “Bill” Schonemann and expressed intentions to target numerous other priests in what he described as a chilling mission.
Sheafe claimed he aimed to “execute” and “crucify” 14 religious figures in 10 states. His fixation, he said, stemmed from a belief that the New Testament contradicted a biblical commandment to have no other gods before God, a conviction he framed as “Operation First Commandment.” He characterized Jesus Christ disparagingly, asserting his actions were part of a divine crusade, despite denying any mental health issues.
When asked about the charges against him, Sheafe readily confirmed their accuracy. He detailed how his fixation led him from California to Arizona, where he allegedly stalked the pastor at his church before committing the murder on April 28. “I returned on Sunday to execute and crucify him to this wall,” he said. The details he provided about the crime prompted a decision to withhold specific information out of respect for the victim’s family.
After the murder, Sheafe reportedly stole a car and driven to Sedona with the intention of killing two priests at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. He said he planned to observe the priests to identify their vehicles, but his activities were cut short when law enforcement apprehended him following a high-speed pursuit that ended in a crash.
“I was just determined to get those two priests,” he shared, indicating a focus on his violent intentions. Officers from the Sedona Police Department intervened, likely preventing further tragedy, as Sheafe reflected on his failed attempts. “Had I been better prepared… I don’t think there would have been any way to stop me,” he lamented.
Sheafe awaits extradition to Maricopa County and expressed a desire to bypass the trial process entirely, insisting on a rapid execution. “Put me on death row, set the execution date for right now,” he stated, claiming the victims’ families desired the same outcome.
After listening to Sheafe’s revelations, Pastor Schonemann’s son expressed relief at the confession, hoping it could expedite the legal process. However, he remained conflicted regarding the death penalty. “It’s all a part of God’s plan,” he said, emphasizing the importance of moving forward rather than harboring anger.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the community is left grappling with the ramifications of Sheafe’s actions and the chilling motivations behind them. As investigations continue, the focus remains on how to process this profound loss and ensure justice is served.