The daughter of Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson was discovered deceased with multiple stab wounds at her home in St. Cloud on Saturday night, according to police. Her husband, Dylan Michael Tobler, 23, was critically injured but now in stable condition.
St. Cloud police stated that Dylan Tobler’s injuries are self-inflicted and that he is the person responsible for Hallie Marie Tobler’s death, which occurred during an attempted murder-suicide. The incident took place at their residence.
Johnson has suspended his campaign for governor following the tragedy. A statement from the Minnesota Republican Party said: “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.”
Johnson is distinct from a former Hennepin County commissioner and two-time Republican nominee for governor. He finished near the bottom of the field in last week’s precinct caucuses.
Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, expressed her condolences: “The Johnson family is walking through an unspeakable tragedy right now, and my prayers are with them every step of the way.”
Another gubernatorial contender, Peggy Bennett, added: “I cannot even imagine the heartbreak and sorrow that Jeff and his family are experiencing right now. My heart breaks for them.”