Jill Biden's Ex-Husband Charged in Shocking Murder Case
In a startling development that has drawn national attention, William Stevenson, the ex-husband of former First Lady Jill Biden, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of his current wife. The 77-year-old Stevenson was taken into custody on Monday following a grand jury indictment in Delaware, reigniting interest in Jill Biden's early personal life amid this tragic and violent episode.
The Arrest and Charges
New Castle County police announced the arrest after an extensive weeks-long investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Linda Stevenson, 64. Officers initially responded to a domestic dispute call on December 28 at a residence in the Wilmington area. Upon arrival, they found Linda unresponsive in the living room. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The body was promptly turned over to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science for autopsy, though specific details on the cause of death have not been publicly released. The grand jury's decision to indict Stevenson on first-degree murder charges underscores the severity of the allegations, pointing to what authorities describe as a deliberate act. Stevenson is currently being held at the Howard Young Correctional Institution after failing to post a $500,000 cash bail. As of now, it's unclear if he has retained legal representation, and attempts to reach him for comment have been unsuccessful.
Investigation Details
The probe into Linda Stevenson's death has been thorough, involving forensic analysis and witness interviews. Police have not elaborated on the exact evidence leading to the charges, but the initial domestic dispute report suggests a volatile situation escalated quickly. This case highlights ongoing concerns about domestic violence in the U.S., where such incidents too often end in tragedy. According to national statistics from organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline, over 10 million adults experience domestic violence annually, with women disproportionately affected.
Jill Biden's Connection to William Stevenson
The name William Stevenson might not ring bells for many, but his brief marriage to Jill Biden – then Jill Tracy Jacobs – places this story in a surprising historical context. The couple wed in February 1970 when Jill was just 18, a freshman at the University of Delaware, and Stevenson was 23. Their union lasted only five years, ending in a civil divorce in May 1975.
During their marriage, Stevenson ventured into the entertainment world by opening The Stone Balloon Club in Newark, Delaware, near the university campus. The venue quickly became a legendary spot for live music, hosting iconic acts like Bruce Springsteen, Dave Matthews Band, and The Allman Brothers. It drew crowds of college students and music lovers for decades, cementing Stevenson's reputation as a local entrepreneur. Jill Biden reportedly sought to retain a half-share in the club after the divorce but was ultimately denied.
Just months after finalizing her divorce from Stevenson, Jill met then-Delaware Senator Joe Biden in March 1975 on a blind date. The rest, as they say, is history: the Bidens married in 1977, and Jill became a steadfast partner through his political ascent, serving as Second Lady and later First Lady during his presidency from 2021 to 2025.
Reflecting on Jill Biden's Early Life
Jill Biden's first marriage has rarely been a focal point of public discussion, overshadowed by her long partnership with Joe Biden and her own accomplishments as an educator and advocate. Born in 1951 in Hammonton, New Jersey, Jill grew up in a close-knit family and pursued English literature at the University of Delaware. Her early 20s were marked by personal growth and challenges, including the end of her first marriage amid the cultural shifts of the 1970s.
Today, at 73, Jill Biden remains an influential figure, known for her work in education, military family support, and cancer research advocacy. A representative for the Bidens did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Stevenson's arrest, respecting the family's privacy on this distant chapter. However, the news has prompted social media buzz, with users connecting dots between Jill's resilient past and this unforeseen link to a criminal case.
Who Was Linda Stevenson?
Linda Stevenson, the victim in this heartbreaking case, was remembered fondly in her obituary as a deeply family-oriented woman and avid Philadelphia Eagles supporter. At 64, she had founded a small bookkeeping business in her later years, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community. Friends and family described her as warm and devoted, leaving a void in the lives of those who knew her.
While details of her relationship with William Stevenson remain private, the domestic dispute call paints a picture of underlying tensions. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the hidden struggles within relationships, urging greater awareness and resources for those in need.
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
The arrest has sparked widespread media coverage, from local Delaware outlets to national networks like NBC News, which first reported the story. For SEO purposes and public interest, searches for "Jill Biden ex-husband" have surged, blending true crime intrigue with political history. Legal experts note that first-degree murder charges in Delaware carry severe penalties, potentially life imprisonment without parole, depending on the trial's outcome.
As the case unfolds, questions linger about Stevenson's motives and the investigation's findings. For Jill Biden, this unwelcome spotlight on her youth underscores her journey from a young bride to a trailblazing First Lady. Her story of perseverance continues to inspire, even as this dark chapter from her past emerges.
In the coming weeks, court proceedings will provide more clarity, but for now, the focus remains on justice for Linda Stevenson and reflection on the complexities of personal histories in public figures' lives. Everythiiing.com will continue to update this developing story.