Delaware Man Married to Former First Lady Jill Biden Pleads Not Guilty in Wife's Death

William Stevenson, 77, was charged with killing his current wife Linda Stevenson, 64, in Wilmington, Delaware.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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William Stevenson, the former husband of First Lady Jill Biden, pleaded not guilty to charges that he killed his current wife Linda Stevenson in their Wilmington, Delaware home on December 28. Stevenson, 77, was previously married to Jill Biden from 1970 to 1975 before she married U.S. Senator and former President Joe Biden in 1977.

Why it matters

This case has drawn attention due to Stevenson's previous marriage to Jill Biden, the current First Lady. It raises questions about domestic violence, mental health, and the challenges of long-term relationships, especially those involving public figures.

The details

A state grand jury charged Stevenson with murder after his 64-year-old wife Linda was found unresponsive at their Wilmington home on December 28. Stevenson has remained in custody since being charged on February 3 with a $2 million bail that he has been unable to post. Stevenson founded the popular music venue Stone Balloon in Newark, Delaware in the 1970s, while his wife Linda ran a bookkeeping business.

  • On December 28, Linda Stevenson was found unresponsive at the couple's Wilmington home.
  • On February 3, William Stevenson was charged with murder.
  • On February 17, Stevenson pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The players

William Stevenson

A 77-year-old man who was previously married to Jill Biden from 1970 to 1975, and is now charged with killing his current wife Linda Stevenson.

Linda Stevenson

William Stevenson's 64-year-old wife who was found unresponsive at the couple's Wilmington home on December 28.

Jill Biden

The current First Lady of the United States, who was previously married to William Stevenson from 1970 to 1975 before marrying U.S. Senator and former President Joe Biden in 1977.

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What they’re saying

“'One hug from her and all your worries would disappear. The pain of losing her is paralyzing and the emptiness in my heart is an abyss.'”

— Christine Mae, Linda Stevenson's daughter (Facebook)

What’s next

Stevenson's next court hearing is set for March 16, where the judge will determine if he can be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complex dynamics that can arise in long-term relationships, especially those involving public figures. It raises important questions about domestic violence, mental health, and the lasting impacts on families when such incidents occur.