How Bill Stevenson Was Charged With First-Degree Murder: What We Know So Far
Published: February 3, 2026
Bill Stevenson, the former husband of former U.S. First Lady Jill Biden, is facing serious legal trouble after being charged with first-degree murder in the death of his second wife, Linda Stevenson. The case has drawn national attention due to Stevenson’s past connections and the circumstances surrounding Linda’s death.
Bill Stevenson’s Background and Business History
William “Bill” Stevenson was a well-known figure in Delaware for decades. In 1972, he founded The Stone Balloon, a popular bar located near the University of Delaware. The venue became a cultural hotspot for college students and music fans, hosting performances by major artists including Bruce Springsteen, Metallica, and Dave Matthews.
Stevenson remained involved with The Stone Balloon until it closed in 2005. The property was later converted into a restaurant that operated from 2015 until its closure in 2024, according to reports from Delaware Online.
Marriage to Jill Biden and Later Relationships
Stevenson met Jill Biden while both were students at the University of Delaware. The couple married in 1970, when Stevenson was 23 years old and Jill was 18. Their marriage lasted five years, ending in divorce in 1975.
Jill later married Joe Biden in 1977. In past interviews, Stevenson claimed he suspected an affair between Jill and Joe Biden prior to their divorce, stating he had once considered Joe a friend.
About a decade after his divorce from Jill, Stevenson married Linda. In a previous interview with the Daily Mail, he described Linda as “the greatest thing in my life.”
Domestic Dispute and Linda Stevenson’s Death
On December 30, 2025, police were called to the Stevenson residence in the Oak Hill neighborhood of Wilmington, Delaware, following a reported domestic dispute. Authorities found Linda Stevenson unresponsive in the living room.
Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, Linda was pronounced dead at the scene. Bill Stevenson reportedly cooperated with law enforcement during the initial investigation.
Arrest and First-Degree Murder Charge
After further investigation, New Castle County Police arrested Bill Stevenson on February 2, 2026, charging him with first-degree murder in connection with Linda Stevenson’s death. He was taken into custody and is currently being held on $500,000 bond.
Police have not publicly released additional details regarding the evidence leading to the charge.
Jill Biden Remains Silent
As of publication, former First Lady Jill Biden has not commented publicly on her ex-husband’s arrest or the ongoing legal case.
Ongoing Investigation
The case remains under investigation, and further updates are expected as legal proceedings continue. Stevenson is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.