Sedona News – On April 30, 2025, at approximately 9:49 p.m., Sedona Police officers, supported by deputies from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, arrested 50-year-old Adam Christopher Sheafe near Gambel Lane following an extensive and exhausting search. Sheafe faces charges including Second Degree Burglary, First Degree Trespassing, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Aggravated Assault and Resisting Arrest. Additional charges may be forthcoming.
The incident began around 6:22 p.m. when officers responded to a reported burglary at 170 Gambel Ln. in Sedona. The homeowner, who was remotely monitoring the property via surveillance cameras, observed Sheafe in the garage searching through boxes. Sheafe’s description matched a suspect involved in a similar burglary incident reported the previous day in the same area.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Sheafe had already fled. An immediate perimeter was established, and an extensive search commenced. Officers received crucial assistance from the Sedona Police Department’s Quick Response Team (QRT) supplemented by members of the Verde Valley Regional SWAT Team, a Cottonwood Police drone operator and K-9 units from the Cottonwood Police Department.
At approximately 9:20 p.m., Sheafe was observed hiding in dense brush by the QRT. Despite repeated commands to surrender, Sheafe fled, leading to an extensive chase through rugged terrain within the Coconino National Forest. After returning to a residential area, Sheafe was successfully apprehended by Sedona patrol officers and a deputy from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, who deployed an Electronic Control Device (taser) to safely arrest him.
The prior day, officers pursued Sheafe in connection with another burglary incident, but the pursuit was terminated due to public safety concerns. During his escape, Sheafe collided with another vehicle, resulting in minor damage and injuries to a citizen. His vehicle, later determined to be stolen from Cave Creek, Ariz., was found abandoned at a nearby trailhead, where he had evaded capture that day by fleeing into the forest.
After being apprehended, Sheafe refused medical treatment at the scene and was transported to the Coconino County Jail, where he was booked on charges related to both incidents. Investigations into possible additional felony charges are ongoing.
The Sedona Police Department extends its gratitude to the Cottonwood Police Department, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Sedona Fire Department and local residents for their cooperation and support.
Residents are always encouraged to report any suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement.
For further information, please contact Detective Sergeant Casey Pelletier at cpelletier@sedonaaz.gov or (928) 203-5006.