Delaware Man Charged in Wife's Killing

William Stevenson, once briefly married to Jill Biden, held without bail

Feb. 4, 2026 at 3:31pm

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William Stevenson, a 77-year-old Delaware man who was briefly married to former First Lady Jill Biden in the 1970s, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson. Stevenson was arrested after police responded to a reported domestic dispute at the couple's home in late December, where they found Linda unresponsive. He has been held in jail without bail as the investigation continues.

Why it matters

The case has drawn attention due to Stevenson's past connection to Jill Biden, though authorities have not disclosed a motive for the alleged killing. It also highlights ongoing issues of domestic violence and the need for thorough investigations into such incidents.

The details

According to police, officers were called to the Stevenson home on December 28 for a reported domestic dispute. They found Linda Stevenson unresponsive in the living room, and life-saving measures were unsuccessful. William Stevenson was arrested and charged with first-degree murder following a weekslong investigation by the Delaware Department of Justice. Stevenson was briefly married to Jill Biden from 1970 to 1975, before she married Joe Biden in 1977.

  • Police were called to the Stevenson home on December 28, 2025.
  • William Stevenson was charged with first-degree murder on February 3, 2026.

The players

William Stevenson

A 77-year-old Delaware man who was briefly married to former First Lady Jill Biden in the 1970s. He has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson.

Linda Stevenson

William Stevenson's 64-year-old wife, who was found unresponsive in their home and later died.

Jill Biden

The former First Lady of the United States, who was briefly married to William Stevenson in the 1970s before marrying Joe Biden in 1977.

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What they’re saying

“Stevenson criticized Jill Biden and described their divorce as contentious, calling her 'bitter' and 'nasty.'”

— William Stevenson

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to grant William Stevenson bail at a hearing on February 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing need for thorough investigations into domestic violence incidents and the importance of providing support and resources for victims and their families.