William Stevenson, 77, ex-husband of the former first lady of Estados Unidos Jill Biden, was arrested after indictment for first-degree murder. The accusation refers to the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson, aged 64, which occurred in December 2025. The arrest took place on Monday, February 2, 2026, in Delaware.
New Castle County law enforcement authorities conducted a several-week investigation before presenting the case to the grand jury. The indictment resulted in the immediate arrest of Stevenson at his residence, without incident. Ele remains in custody after failing to post $500,000 cash bail.
The case gained attention due to Stevenson’s historical connection to Jill Biden. The two were married between 1970 and 1975, during which time she was a student at University of Delaware.
Incident details
Officers responded to a domestic dispute call on December 28, 2025, at approximately 11:15 p.m., at a residence in the 1300 block of Idlewood Road, in the neighborhood of Oak Hill, area of Elsmere, near Wilmington. When they arrived at the scene, they found Linda Stevenson unresponsive in the living room.
Agents immediately began resuscitation maneuvers, but they were unsuccessful. Linda was pronounced dead at the scene. Seu body was sent to Divisão of Ciência Forense of Delaware for an autopsy, which helped determine the cause of death.
Police initially treated the case as a death investigation. As investigations progressed, evidence led to the escalation to homicide. The indictment used a rule that keeps initial documents confidential.
Profile of Linda Stevenson
Linda Stevenson, born April 29, 1961, was described by family members as a deeply family-oriented person. Ela leaves children and grandchildren, who highlighted his dedication to family life in public statements.
In recent years, Linda founded and operated a small accounting business. The activity reflected his organization and professional independence. Ela was also a passionate fan of the American football team Philadelphia Eagles.
His obituary, published in January 2026, emphasized these aspects of his personality. The text highlighted his unexpected passing at the age of 64.
History of William Stevenson
William Stevenson, known as Bill, was born 77 years ago and built a career as an entrepreneur in Delaware. Ele founded Stone Balloon, a bar and music venue that became a reference in the Newark region in the 1970s.
The place attracted students from University of Delaware and established itself as a cultural spot. Stevenson managed the space for decades, until later legal disputes. Sua trajectory included early marriage to Jill Jacobs, then 18 years old.
The couple divorced in 1975, after five years of marriage. Jill Biden met Joe Biden soon after and married him in 1977.
Legacy of Stone Balloon
Stone Balloon operated as one of the main stages for live music in eastern Estados Unidos. Localizado at Main Street of Newark, the venue accommodated around 900 people and focused on university audiences.
Famous artists performed there at different times. The space helped launch careers and attracted established names.
- Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band played in 1974, in a memorable show.
- Metallica came to the stage in the early stages of their career.
- Dave Matthews Band performed regularly.
- Allman Brothers Band included the venue on tours.
- George Thorogood and the Delaware Destroyers were regulars.
- Other names such as Hall and Oates, Bonnie Raitt and Warren Zevon also presented themselves.
The venue closed its doors years later, but remains in the cultural memory of Delaware. Sua story reflects Stevenson’s entrepreneurship in the music scene.
Police investigation
The New Castle County police mobilized a criminal investigation unit shortly after the incident. Detetives collected evidence at the residence and interviewed those involved.
Collaboration with Divisão of Ciência Forense was essential in classifying the death. Resultados of the autopsy contributed to the indictment.
Stevenson was arrested at his home on Monday. Ele went through an initial hearing and remains at Howard R. Young Correctional Institution.
Context of marriage with Jill Biden
Jill Jacobs and William Stevenson were married in February 1970. Ela was 18 years old and studying at he, 23 years old, started local businesses.
The marriage lasted five years and ended in civil divorce in May 1975. Jill tried to maintain participation in Stone Balloon, but was unsuccessful in court.
Soon after, she met then senator Joe Biden. The two married in 1977 and raised a family together.
Repercussion of the case
The indictment reignited public interest in the past of American political figures. The connection with the former first lady expanded media coverage.
Authorities remain confidential about details of the cause of death. The investigation prioritized facts and evidence collected.
Stevenson awaits next legal steps. Não there is public information about hiring a defense lawyer.
Stevenson’s business trajectory
In addition to Stone Balloon, Stevenson engaged in other activities at Delaware. The bar represented the height of its influence on local nightlife.
The place functioned as a tavern and concert hall, combining drinks and shows. Sua location close to the university guaranteed constant attendance.
After closing, the space gained historic status among residents. Eventos pasts continue to be referenced in cultural archives.
The entrepreneurship of Stevenson marked an epoch in Newark. Sua management has attracted varied musical talent over the years.
Highlighted family aspects
Family members of Linda emphasized his orientation towards the family nucleus in tributes. Ela leaves a legacy of affection between children and grandchildren.
His professional activity in accounting demonstrated administrative capacity. The business had operated independently in recent years.
Supporting the Eagles was part of their leisure routine. The team represents a strong regional identity in Delaware and Pensilvânia.
