William Stevenson, previously married to the former First Lady of the United States, Jill Biden, has been formally charged with first-degree murder following the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson. The incident occurred on December 28, 2025, at their home in New Castle County, Delaware.
This development, confirmed by local police on Tuesday, February 3, has sent shockwaves through both political circles and the media, given Stevenson's past connection to the wife of former President Joe Biden.
At 77 years old, Stevenson was taken into custody and is currently held at the Howard Young Correctional Institution, unable to post a $500,000 cash bail.
A Suspicious Death Amid Domestic Violence Allegations
Authorities reported that officers were dispatched to the couple's home after receiving a call about a domestic dispute on December 28. Upon arrival, they discovered Linda Stevenson unconscious in the living room. Despite resuscitation attempts, she was pronounced dead shortly after.
The body was sent to Delaware's Division of Forensic Science for an autopsy, a standard procedure when signs of a violent death are present. While the official cause of death remains undisclosed, Stevenson's arrest followed a thorough police investigation that lasted several weeks.
"The grand jury indictment was the culmination of a comprehensive investigation," stated Corporal Richard Chambers, spokesperson for the county police. The Delaware Department of Justice was involved in the proceedings that led to the charges.
Linda Stevenson's Legacy
At 64, Linda Stevenson was remembered in her obituary as a "family-oriented" woman, passionate about the Philadelphia Eagles and traveling with her daughter and granddaughter. In recent years, she had established her own accounting firm and built trusting relationships with many clients.
"Linda will be remembered as a tenacious, kind, and loyal person. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering love for family and friends will never be forgotten, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her," her family's tribute read.
The Marriage of Jill Biden and William Stevenson
William Stevenson was married to Jill Biden (then Jill Tracy Jacobs) from 1970 until 1975. Jill was a student at the University of Delaware and was only 18 when they wed. Stevenson, five years her senior, was a prominent local figure, having founded The Stone Balloon Club, a college bar that became a cultural landmark in Newark, New Jersey, hosting acts like Bruce Springsteen, Dave Matthews, and The Allman Brothers Band.
Their marriage ended in 1975, shortly after Jill met then-Senator Joe Biden. The divorce proceedings included a legal battle over the ownership of the bar, which Jill Biden sought to share but ultimately lost.
The post-presidential office of President Biden and Jill Biden's representatives have declined to comment on Stevenson's arrest. At this time, it remains unclear whether the accused has secured legal representation for the upcoming trial.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Case
What charges is William Stevenson facing?
William Stevenson has been charged with first-degree murder following the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson.
What was the cause of Linda Stevenson's death?
The official cause of Linda Stevenson's death has not been publicly disclosed, though it is suspected to be related to a violent incident.
Has there been any comment from Jill Biden or her representatives?
Neither the post-presidential office of President Biden nor Jill Biden's representatives have commented on the arrest of William Stevenson.