The shocking discovery of a respected Arizona pastor's violent death is under active investigation, with authorities identifying a suspect more than a month after the incident.

Officials in Maricopa County have identified a suspect in the April 28 killing of Pastor William Schonemann, whose body was found under disturbing circumstances in his New River, Arizona home, the Christian Post reported.

Pastor William Schonemann, 76, was found dead at his residence following a call to authorities on a late-April morning. Law enforcement officials described the scene as evidencing "foul play," though they have released few specific details since then.

Multiple media outlets, including Fox 10 Phoenix, reported that the pastor’s body was located in his bed, with his arms extended and his hands pinned to a wall. Significant injuries had been sustained, sources told the outlet, though no cause of death has been confirmed publicly.

The investigation is being led by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office. On Friday, the agency confirmed that it had identified a suspect connected to Pastor Schonemann's death, marking the first major development in the case since the initial announcement of foul play.

Suspect held on unrelated charge elsewhere.

While authorities have confirmed that a suspect has been linked to the murder case, they have not yet released the individual’s identity. According to reporting by 12 News, the person in question is currently in the custody of another law enforcement agency for a separate, unrelated offense.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office has declined to provide further details on the nature of the unrelated charge or the timeline for potential extradition or formal arrest in connection with the pastor's death. When contacted by The Christian Post earlier this week, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office said no further updates were available at that time.

The news of a suspect being identified comes as a small source of comfort to those mourning Pastor Schonemann, who led the New River Bible Chapel for more than three decades and was considered a spiritual cornerstone of the rural Arizona community.

Community grappling with violent loss.

Schonemann was a retired U.S. Navy veteran who enlisted with deep religious faith following his military service in the Vietnam War. After marrying his wife, Crystal, the two were active members of their faith-based local network. Crystal passed away in 2022 after nearly five decades of marriage, and following her death, the pastor became even more involved in his church's work.

His sudden and violent death has sent shockwaves through the town, where many knew him simply as "Pastor Bill." Area residents describe him as a steady presence who guided them through personal challenges and moments of grief.

Diane Brown, a longtime member of the congregation and close friend, described the magnitude of the loss in emotional terms. “We’re a bunch of sheep who have lost our shepherd,” she told 12 News, reflecting the deep affection and reliance the community placed on him.

Family reflects on spiritual legacy

Randall Schonemann, Pastor Schonemann’s son, stated that the death came as a total surprise. Speaking to 12 News, he said, “I don’t think we’re ever going to truly understand the person that did this.”

He did call the development in the investigation “a step in the right direction,” while acknowledging that the emotional burden remains heavy. “I hope I can’t understand why a person did something like this,” Randall added, implying the crime defies logic or compassion.

Fal residents still trying to come to terms with the details of the crime scene, the spiritual memory of Pastor Schonemann remains a source of strength. “I don’t like the way his life was taken,” said Diane Brown, “but I know he’s at peace.”

Investigation ongoing as community heals

As of now, no timeline has been given on when charges might be brought against the suspect connected to the case. It remains unclear what evidence led investigators to this individual or whether additional suspects are being considered.

Authorities continue urging anyone with information related to Pastor Schonemann’s death to come forward. For now, they have emphasized that the case remains active and that updates may become available as the legal process unfolds.

In the meantime, the congregation of New River Bible Chapel has expressed continued sorrow for its leader, but many have also pointed to their deep-rooted beliefs as a source of solace. “We know where he's at,” said Brown, “and I have to be at peace with that.”