Jill Biden's Ex-Husband Charged with Murdering His Wife

William Stevenson, 77, indicted for first-degree murder in the death of his wife Linda, 64, in Delaware

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former first lady Jill Biden's ex-husband, William 'Bill' Stevenson, has been charged with murdering his wife Linda following an 'extensive weeks-long investigation' by police in Delaware. Stevenson, 77, was arrested at his home without incident and is being held on $500,000 bail after a grand jury indicted him for first-degree murder in connection with his wife's death on December 28.

Why it matters

The case has drawn attention due to Stevenson's connection to Jill Biden, the current First Lady. It also raises questions about domestic violence and the legal system's handling of such cases, especially involving older adults.

The details

Police responded to a 'reported domestic dispute' at the Stevensons' home in Wilmington, Delaware on December 28 and found Linda Stevenson, 64, unresponsive on the living room floor. Her husband William Stevenson had called 911. Detectives later took Stevenson into custody at his home without incident. A grand jury indicted him on Monday for first-degree murder, alleging he 'did intentionally cause the death' of his wife.

  • On December 28, police responded to a reported domestic dispute at the Stevensons' home.
  • On December 28, Linda Stevenson was pronounced dead after police attempted lifesaving measures.
  • On Monday, a grand jury indicted William Stevenson for first-degree murder in connection with his wife's death.

The players

William 'Bill' Stevenson

The 77-year-old former husband of Jill Biden, the current First Lady, who has been charged with murdering his wife Linda.

Linda Stevenson

The 64-year-old wife of William Stevenson who was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead at their home in Wilmington, Delaware on December 28.

Jill Biden

The current First Lady of the United States, who was previously married to William Stevenson for five years before divorcing in 1975.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

It is unclear if William Stevenson has an attorney. The judge will determine whether he will be granted bail at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and resources to address domestic violence, even in later stages of life. It also raises questions about how the legal system handles such sensitive cases, especially when high-profile individuals are involved.