On February 3, 2026, it was reported that William Stevenson, the former husband of current First Lady Jill Biden, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his second wife, Linda Stevenson. The incident occurred during a domestic dispute on December 28, 2025.

Authorities were called to the couple’s Wilmington home after 11 p.m. that evening, where they found Linda unresponsive in the living room. Despite attempts at lifesaving measures, she was pronounced dead shortly afterward. The exact cause of death was not immediately disclosed, and her body was sent for an autopsy.

Following a thorough investigation, a grand jury indicted Stevenson, 77, on murder charges. He remains in custody at the Howard Young Correctional Institution after failing to post a $500,000 bail. The court has not indicated whether he has secured legal representation.

Linda, who was 64 at the time of her death, was described in her obituary as a devoted family-oriented individual and a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. She had run a bookkeeping business and was well-regarded by her community.

Jill Biden, who was married to William from 1970 to 1975, has not publicly commented on the matter. The couple met when Jill was 18 and a student, before later marrying Joe Biden in 1977. William Stevenson is also known for founding the Stone Balloon, a notable music venue in Newark, Delaware, which hosted famous bands like Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews.

This case highlights the complexities surrounding domestic violence and the challenges law enforcement faces in such situations. As it unfolds, the local community is grappling with the implications of this tragic event.