Former First Lady Jill Biden's Ex-Husband Charged with Killing Wife

William Stevenson, 77, faces first-degree murder charges in the death of his 64-year-old wife Linda at their Delaware home.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 1:47pm

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The first husband of former first lady Jill Biden, William Stevenson, has been charged with killing his wife Linda at their Delaware home in late December. Stevenson, 77, was arrested on Monday and is being held on $500,000 bail after a weekslong investigation by detectives.

Why it matters

The case has drawn attention due to Stevenson's connection to Jill Biden, the current first lady. It also highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the need for greater awareness and resources to support victims and their families.

The details

Police were called to the Stevenson home for a reported domestic dispute after 11 p.m. on December 28th. They found Linda Stevenson unresponsive in the living room, and life-saving measures were unsuccessful. Stevenson was charged with first-degree murder in a grand jury indictment following the investigation.

  • On December 28, 2025, police were called to the Stevenson home for a reported domestic dispute after 11 p.m.
  • On Monday, February 2, 2026, William Stevenson was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.

The players

William Stevenson

The 77-year-old first husband of former first lady Jill Biden, who has been charged with killing his 64-year-old wife Linda at their Delaware home.

Linda Stevenson

The 64-year-old wife of William Stevenson, who was found unresponsive in the living room of their Delaware home and died despite life-saving measures.

Jill Biden

The current first lady of the United States, who was previously married to William Stevenson from 1970 to 1975.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow William Stevenson out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the need for greater awareness, resources, and support for victims and their families, regardless of one's connections or status.