Jill Biden’s ex-husband arrested on murder charge in shocking Delaware case
Former First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. Image Source: CNN
Former first lady Dr. Jill Biden has been thrust into an unexpected national headline after her ex-husband, William Stevenson, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his current wife in Delaware, according to law enforcement officials.
Authorities say the case stems from a December domestic incident that ended in tragedy, and while investigators have released limited details, the charges have sparked widespread public interest due to Stevenson’s past connection to the Biden family.
Who Is William Stevenson?
William Stevenson, 77, was previously married to Jill Biden from 1970 to 1975, before she later married then–U.S. Senator Joe Biden. Stevenson is a well-known figure in Delaware, having founded The Stone Balloon, a historic music venue near the University of Delaware that hosted legendary performers including Bruce Springsteen, Dave Matthews, and The Allman Brothers Band.

Despite his past public profile, Stevenson has largely remained out of the national spotlight, until now.
What Happened to Linda Stevenson?
Stevenson is accused of killing his current wife, Linda Stevenson, 64, who was found unresponsive inside their home in New Castle County, Delaware, in late December.
According to police, officers responded to the residence after receiving a call about a domestic dispute. When authorities arrived, Linda Stevenson was discovered in the living room. Despite lifesaving efforts by officers, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her body was later transferred to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science for an autopsy. Officials have not publicly disclosed her cause or manner of death, citing the ongoing investigation.
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Arrest, Charges, and Court Proceedings
Following what police described as an “extensive weekslong investigation,” a Delaware grand jury indicted William Stevenson on a charge of first-degree murder.
He was arrested and formally arraigned, then remanded to the Howard Young Correctional Institution, where he remains in custody after failing to post $500,000 cash bail. Authorities have not confirmed whether Stevenson has secured legal representation.
Jill Biden and the Biden Family’s Response
A representative for Jill Biden’s post–White House office declined to comment on Stevenson’s arrest and charges. Similarly, representatives for former President Joe Biden did not immediately respond to media inquiries.
Jill Biden married Stevenson at age 18 while attending the University of Delaware. The marriage lasted five years, ending in divorce in 1975. Shortly afterward, she met Joe Biden, whom she later married.
There is no indication that Jill Biden is connected in any way to the investigation or alleged crime beyond the prior marital history.
Public Reaction and Broader Context
The case has drawn national attention not only because of its tragic nature but also due to its indirect link to one of the most prominent political families in the United States.
Legal analysts note that while the charges are serious, Stevenson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. Investigators continue to withhold detailed evidence as the case proceed.
FAQ
Who is Jill Biden’s ex-husband?
Jill Biden’s ex-husband is William Stevenson, a Delaware businessman and founder of the Stone Balloon music venue. They were married from 1970 to 1975.
Why was William Stevenson arrested?
He was arrested after a grand jury indicted him on a first-degree murder charge in the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson.
What happened to Linda Stevenson?
Linda Stevenson was found unresponsive in her home in New Castle County, Delaware, following a reported domestic dispute. She was pronounced dead despite emergency efforts.
Has a cause of death been released?
No. Authorities have not publicly disclosed the cause or manner of death, citing an ongoing investigation.
Is Jill Biden involved in the case?
No. Jill Biden is not connected to the investigation and has not commented publicly on the matter.
Where is William Stevenson being held?
He is being held at the Howard Young Correctional Institution in Delaware after failing to post $500,000 bail.
What charge is he facing?
William Stevenson has been charged with first-degree murder.
What happens next in the case?
The case will proceed through Delaware’s criminal court system, with further hearings expected as prosecutors present evidence and the defense responds.