As the community of New River continues to grapple with the shocking murder of their beloved "Pastor Bill," a suspect has been taken into custody on unrelated charges, officials confirmed. In development that might bring the community a step closer to closure, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) stated that an individual of interest is in custody in a separate jurisdiction for charges unrelated to the pastor's death. This update comes after the widespread concern following the discovery of 76-year-old William Schonemann's body on April 28 inside his home, as reported by ABC15.
However, MCSO has not yet disclosed the identity of the suspect, nor the location of their current detention. "Coordination between agencies is ongoing as we work to move the investigation forward," a spokesperson for the MCSO stated, indicating an unfolding collaboration between law enforcement entities. This sentiment echoes a sentiment shared by Randy Schonemann, Pastor Bill's son, who acknowledged the complexity of the investigation process in an interview obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix: "They have a case that they have to build and protect and prevent from being ruined by silly things, and so being patient has been the biggest thing for us."
Despite the arms of justice extending in the right direction, the MCSO remains guarded about the specific elements of the case, citing only "unique, specific circumstances" without further elaboration. The restraint behind these disclosures likely arises from a dutiful effort to ensure the integrity of the case. EMSO officials express optimism about disclosing more details in the coming weeks, which they hope to offer "additional clarity and progress in the case," as mentioned on FOX 10 Phoenix.
Pastor Schonemann was remembered fondly by the community as a veteran who had a passion for fixing cars and even planes. The tragic loss has left a void not only within the New River Bible Chapel congregation but also across the wider circle of those who knew him. Paying tribute to his father, Randy reminisced in a statement told to FOX 10 Phoenix, saying his dad was not one for being the center of attention, "but I think he would be touched to see how many people he impacted."
While the investigation plods ahead, the MCSO is encouraging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and contact them at 602-876-TIPS (8477).
