Jill Biden’s ex-husband, William “Bill” Stevenson, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson, found dead in their Delaware home, authorities confirm. This development has dominated national headlines because of Stevenson’s past relationship with the former First Lady, even though the case itself is a criminal matter unrelated to President Joe Biden’s political work or family.
It highlights how public figures’ histories can intensify media attention on otherwise private legal matters.
Who Was William Stevenson and His Ties to Jill Biden
William Stevenson, 77, is the former spouse of Dr. Jill Biden — then Jill Jacobs — whom she married in 1970 as an 18-year-old college student at the University of Delaware. The couple was married for five years before divorcing in 1975.
Stevenson later became a businessman, known for founding The Stone Balloon, a music venue and bar near the University of Delaware that hosted many performers and became part of local culture. His marriage to Jill Biden ended decades ago, and she went on to marry Joe Biden in 1977, eventually becoming First Lady of the United States from 2021 to 2025.
What Happened to Linda Stevenson
On December 28, 2025, police in New Castle County, Delaware, responded to a reported domestic disturbance at the Stevensons’ home in Oak Hill late at night. When officers arrived, 64-year-old Linda Stevenson was found unresponsive in the living room. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, Linda was later pronounced dead.
Linda was a mother, grandmother, and the owner of a small bookkeeping business. Obituary notices described her as devoutly family-oriented and admired by loved ones, with no public mention of her husband in her funeral notice — a detail that raised questions in local circles.
The Murder Charge and Legal Status of William Stevenson
After a weeks-long investigation involving forensic analysis and interviews, a New Castle County grand jury returned an indictment on February 3, 2026, charging Stevenson with first-degree murder — a charge indicative of intentional killing under Delaware law.
Stevenson was taken into custody without incident at his home and is currently held at the Howard Young Correctional Institution in Wilmington. He failed to post the $500,000 cash bail set by prosecutors and remains in jail pending judicial proceedings.
Police have not publicly released a detailed motive or the official cause of Linda Stevenson’s death, pending further forensic results and courtroom testimony.
Public and Media Attention: Not Just a Crime Story
What has caused national headlines is not just the crime itself but the association with Jill Biden, who has not issued a public comment on the case. Media outlets across the U.S. and globally are covering the event, with a focus on balancing the criminal investigation with respect for privacy and judicial fairness.
Legal experts note that high-profile names often amplify public interest, even when there’s no evidence of broader political implications. This case highlights how narrative framing in the media can affect public perception, especially in matters involving well-known figures, past or present.
What Comes Next in the Legal Process
Stevenson’s indictment sets the stage for a long court battle as his legal team prepares to respond to the charge. First-degree murder charges in Delaware carry severe penalties, potentially including life imprisonment if convicted. The legal process will involve pre-trial hearings, evidence presentation, and ultimately, a trial where both sides present their case.
Observers will be watching how prosecutors present the evidence linking Stevenson to Linda’s death, and whether additional detail about motive or intent comes to light.
Why This Story Matters Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the shock value, this case underscores important issues:
- Criminal justice transparency: How investigations into alleged domestic crimes are conducted and communicated to the public.
- Media context: Ensuring reporting is factual, respectful of due process, and avoids sensationalism solely for clicks.
- Public interest and privacy: Balancing the public’s right to know with the need to protect privacy and prevent undue influence on legal proceedings.
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