Jill Biden's First Husband Charged with Killing Wife

William Stevenson, 77, faces first-degree murder charges in Delaware

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:15pm

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William Stevenson, the first husband of former First Lady Jill Biden, has been charged with killing his wife Linda Stevenson, 64, at their Delaware home in late December. Stevenson, 77, was arrested on Monday and remains in jail after failing to post $500,000 bail. Police were called to the home for a reported domestic dispute on December 28, where they found Linda unresponsive in the living room. Stevenson founded a popular music venue called the Stone Balloon in the 1970s.

Why it matters

This case sheds light on the complex personal history of the Biden family and the challenges they have faced. It also raises broader questions about domestic violence and the need for stronger protections and support systems for victims and their families.

The details

According to authorities, William Stevenson is accused of killing his wife Linda Stevenson, 64, during a domestic dispute at their Wilmington, Delaware home on December 28. Police were called to the home after 11 pm and found Linda unresponsive in the living room, but life-saving measures were unsuccessful. Stevenson was charged with first-degree murder after a weekslong investigation by the Delaware Department of Justice.

  • On December 28, police were called to the Stevenson home for a reported domestic dispute after 11 pm.
  • On Monday, February 3, 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 wife Linda Stevenson.

Linda Stevenson

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

Jill Biden

The former First Lady of the United States, who was previously married to William Stevenson from 1970 to 1975.

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What’s next

Stevenson remains in jail after failing to post $500,000 bail. The judge will decide on whether to grant him bail at a hearing on February 10.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and support around domestic violence, even in high-profile families. It serves as a reminder that no one is immune to such challenges, and that more must be done to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent these types of incidents from occurring.