The tragic passing of Pastor William Schonemann, a cherished figure at New River Bible Chapel in Arizona, has left the community in shock. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has ruled his death a homicide, prompting an investigation that has revealed unsettling details surrounding the incident.
On Monday evening, at approximately 7:31 PM, deputies responded to a distress call that led them to the home of the 76-year-old pastor. Upon arrival, they discovered Schonemann deceased, with evidence suggesting foul play was involved. While the authorities have not released specific details about the crime scene, reports indicate that he suffered significant injuries and was found in a disturbing position.
Residents of New River, a small community with a population of just over 17,000, are grappling with the implications of such violence in their peaceful town. Emily Brean, a local resident, expressed her disbelief, stating, "Honestly, I was shocked because New River is so small. … I leave my keys in my vehicles, don’t lock my door and things like that." This sentiment resonates with many who have felt a sense of security in their close-knit community.
As the investigation unfolds, Sgt. Joaquin Enriquez of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that detectives are diligently pursuing all leads. "Our thoughts are with Mr. Schonemann’s loved ones as we continue our efforts to bring justice in this case," he remarked, emphasizing the isolated nature of the incident.
Pastor Schonemann was a beloved figure not just in his church but also in the wider community. His son, Randall Schonemann, shared that his father had been a devoted pastor for about 25 years, deeply committed to his congregation following the passing of his wife, Crystal, in 2022. Randall described his father as an outgoing individual who positively impacted everyone he met, stating, "There are never enough words to say it all or to say it as well as a person would like. Simply, he is missed."
The community’s response to this tragedy highlights the strong bonds formed through shared faith and fellowship. Carol Mathews, another local resident, voiced her concerns about safety but also acknowledged the importance of the investigation. "Whenever there is a potential murderer running around, I am not too comfortable, but I can understand why they wouldn’t share," she said.
As the investigation continues, many are turning to prayer and support for Pastor Schonemann’s family and the church community. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need for compassion and understanding in times of grief.
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