Hallie Marie Tobler, 22, was found dead with multiple stab wounds following an attempted murder-suicide at her home in St. Cloud.
Jeff Johnson, the Republican gubernatorial candidate, has suspended his campaign after his daughter’s death.
The Minnesota Republican Party released a statement expressing profound sorrow: “The Minnesota Republican Party is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Dr. Jeff Johnson’s daughter, who was killed in a violent crime Saturday night in St. Cloud. There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for Jeff and his family. The loss of a child is unimaginable, and our thoughts and prayers are with them as they grieve this devastating tragedy.”
The party added: “Out of respect for his family and the enormity of this loss, Jeff has suspended his campaign for Governor of Minnesota. We ask all Minnesotans to join us in lifting up the Johnson family during this incredibly painful time. We also extend our gratitude to the first responders and law enforcement officers involved and ask for patience and compassion as the investigation continues.”
Tobler’s husband, Dylan Michael Tobler, 23, was critically wounded inside the home with what police believe were self-inflicted stab wounds. Dylan is now in stable condition but has been taken into police custody and is expected to be charged with homicide following his release from the hospital. St. Cloud police stated that their investigation indicates “the injuries are self-inflicted and that he is the person responsible for Hallie’s injuries and death.”
Johnson, who was a candidate in a crowded field seeking the Republican nomination this year, finished far back in the pack during last week’s precinct caucuses. He is not the same Jeff Johnson who previously served as a former Hennepin County commissioner and ran twice for governor.
Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, stated: “The Johnson family is walking through an unspeakable tragedy right now, and my prayers are with them every step of the way. As a parent, I can’t imagine the grief and devastation they’re experiencing right now.”
Another Republican gubernatorial candidate, Peggy Bennett, expressed condolences: “I cannot even imagine the heartbreak and sorrow that Jeff and his family are experiencing right now. My heart breaks for them. I am holding Jeff and his family up in prayer during this incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time.”
